Deadly Methane Blast Traps Miners Near Quetta, Pakistan

An explosion caused by a buildup of methane gas ripped through a coal mine on the outskirts of Quetta, the capital of Pakistan’s Baluchistan province, on Thursday. The blast killed at least 32 miners and left 10 others trapped underground. Rescue teams recovered the bodies of seven victims within hours and later located 25 more, confirming the death toll. Officials said the likelihood of finding survivors is low because oxygen levels drop to zero after such explosions, and rescuers are proceeding cautiously inside the mine.

Associated Press

Coal mining in Baluchistan is marked by frequent accidents. Many mines in the region lack adequate ventilation, gas-monitoring systems, and basic safety equipment. Workers and labor groups have repeatedly accused mine owners of neglecting safety regulations, a pattern that contributes to the province’s high fatality rate despite low wages and widespread poverty.

Associated Press

Government mine inspector Ghani Baloch confirmed the methane buildup as the trigger and pledged that rescue operations would continue until all trapped miners are located. Shoaib Nosherwani, Baluchistan’s Minister for Mines and Minerals, expressed condolences and announced that the provincial government will pay compensation of 500,000 Pakistani rupees (about $1,800) to each family of a miner killed in the blast. He also ordered a thorough investigation into the cause and a review of mining safety measures.

Associated Press

The Pakistan Central Mines Labour Federation, representing coal miners, called the explosion “negligence” and urged the government to enforce safety regulations strictly and take “tough action” against companies that violate mine-safety laws.

Associated Press

• “The chances of finding anyone alive diminish after methane gas explosions because oxygen levels drop to zero, and rescuers are also proceeding cautiously inside the mine,” — Ghani Baloch

Associated Press