QUETTA: At least 51 coal miners have died and more than 30 others have suffered injuries in accidents across Balochistan’s coal mines this year, according to official data.
Figures released by the provincial Mines and Minerals Department show that between January and August, incidents of toxic gas accumulation, gas explosions, mine collapses, and trolley accidents killed 51 miners and injured over 30 others. Most of the fatal incidents occurred in the coalfields of Quetta, Duki, and Harnai districts.
One of the deadliest accidents took place on January 9 in Sanjidi, near Quetta, when a gas explosion killed 12 miners. An inquiry committee later held the mine owner and contractor responsible for the tragedy.
The Pakistan Coal Mines Labour Federation leaders have urged authorities to enforce strict safety standards and ensure daily inspections of coal mines to prevent further loss of life.
According to the Pakistan Central Mines Labour Federation, casualties from accidents among labourers working in coal mines range from 100 to 200 every year.
In 2022, approximately 288 mlabourers working in coal mines have been killed in the course of their employment nationwide, with 166 of those fatalities occurring in Balochistan alone.
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According to government sources, there are at least 20,000 labourers employed across Balochistan in 2,500 mines.
