A tragic gas explosion at a coalpit in Pakistan’s Balochistan province claimed the lives of at least 12 miners. The incident occurred late on Tuesday in Harnai, Khost’s mining region, trapping workers approximately 240 meters underground due to a subsequent cave-in. Despite overnight rescue efforts, the bodies of the deceased miners were recovered by Wednesday.
Additionally, eight individuals involved in the rescue operation were temporarily trapped, but were successfully rescued by a government team, some of them unconscious. Balochistan’s Director-General of Mining, Abdullah Shahwani, confirmed the methane gas-induced incident as the cause, highlighting the common risks faced in Pakistan’s coal-rich western areas.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif conveyed deep condolences over the loss of lives. This unfortunate event underscores the frequent dangers inherent in Pakistan’s mines, characterized by hazardous working conditions and inadequate safety standards.
