Pakistan's Coal Mine Becomes a Graveyard: 32 Dead, 10 Still Trapped After Methane Explosion

Quetta: Once again a mine accident in Balochistan, Pakistan on Thursday shook everyone. A massive explosion of methane gas occurred inside a coal mine on the outskirts of Quetta. So far, the death of 32 labourers has been confirmed and 10 labourers are still trapped under the debris. Relief teams are working day and night to rescue them, but the situation is very difficult.

How did the accident happen?

According to government mine inspector Ghani Baloch, methane gas had accumulated inside the mine. Methane is very flammable. The slightest spark caused an explosion. The explosion was so strong that a part of the mine collapsed immediately. At that time many laborers were working inside. After the blast, many people were buried under dust and debris. Hearing the screams, the colleagues working outside immediately informed the rescue team.

Why is there difficulty in the rescue operation?

The biggest problem is oxygen. Officials say that after the blast the oxygen inside the mine has almost ended. In such a situation, every minute going inside is risky. That is why the relief teams are moving very slowly and carefully. So far 32 bodies have been taken out. The remaining 10 workers are being searched, but hopes are diminishing with every hour. Removing debris and stopping gas leakage also remains a big challenge for the teams.

What did the government announce?

Balochistan Mines and Minerals Minister Shoaib Nosherwani reached the spot. He expressed deep grief over the accident. The minister has announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the families of the deceased. Also said that there will be a thorough investigation into the causes of this explosion. After this, the security arrangements in the mines of the entire state will also be reviewed. But the question is, how much change will happen at the ground level after investigation and review?

Whom did the labour organisation blame?

Pakistan Central Mines Labour Federation has directly blamed negligence. The union says that most of the mines do not have basic safety. There are no gas monitoring machines, ventilation is not proper and workers are not even given safety kits. The organisation has demanded that strict action should be taken against the guilty company and officials, otherwise such accidents will not stop.

Why do such accidents happen again and again in Pakistan?

This is not the first accident in Balochistan. Accidents occur every year in the coal mines here. Experts say that there are two major reasons. First – Most of the mines are old and illegal. There are no facilities like ventilation, gas detectors and emergency exits. Second – poverty. Balochistan is the most backward region of Pakistan. Thousands of labourers risk their lives to work in these mines due to the fear of unemployment. Until work is done on both safety and employment, such news will continue to come.