What Happened in Quetta? Two Miners Die in Landslide
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A devastating landslide in Quetta claimed the lives of two miners, highlighting the ongoing safety issues in Balochistan's coal mines. With inadequate safety measures and frequent accidents, this incident raises urgent questions about miner safety in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Two miners died in a landslide in Quetta, highlighting safety issues in the region.
- The mines are often operated under inadequate safety standards.
- Previous incidents have involved fatalities due to methane gas exposure.
- The Chief Mines Inspector has mandated an inquiry into the latest incident.
- Ongoing advocacy for better safety regulations is crucial for the miners' safety.
Quetta, Dec 1 (NationPress) – Tragically, two miners lost their lives following a landslide that struck a coal mine in the Sorranj region on the outskirts of Quetta, Pakistan, as reported by local media on Monday.
The Chief Mines Inspector of Balochistan, Rafiullah, stated that the workers were inside the mine when a significant mass of earth collapsed, trapping them beneath the debris, as highlighted by Pakistan's prominent daily, Dawn.
The two deceased miners have been identified as Shaista Khan and Abdul Malik. Their fellow miners managed to recover their bodies from the site and transported them to the hospital.
The Chief Mines Inspector has mandated the closure of the coal mine and initiated an investigation into the tragic incident.
Coal mines in Balochistan, operated by private companies under lease agreements, are notorious for their perilous working conditions and lack of safety measures, leading to frequent deadly occurrences.
Earlier in October, four coal miners perished in two separate incidents in the Duki and Chamalang regions of Balochistan due to methane gas exposure. Police revealed that the victims, originally from Afghanistan, were engaged in coal mining when the unfortunate accidents occurred, as reported by Dawn.
Chief Inspector of Mines Balochistan, Syed Rafiullah, noted that the manager of the Chamalang mine, where two miners died, was already embroiled in a court case due to failure to enforce adequate safety protocols.
He added that a different coal mine in Duki had previously been shut down by the Mines Inspectorate after another accident that resulted in multiple fatalities owing to similar negligence.
In September, an Afghan coal miner tragically died after inhaling toxic gas while working in a privately-owned coal mine located in the Shahrag area of Harnai district, Balochistan, according to officials.
Officials reported that harmful methane gas had built up within the mine. Although other miners evacuated, one worker, known as Abdullah, lost consciousness while working deep inside. Colleagues attempted to rescue him but were thwarted by the overwhelming presence of methane gas.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the continuing safety challenges faced by miners in Balochistan. This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the urgent need for improved safety regulations and enforcement in coal mining operations. To ensure the safety and well-being of workers, we must advocate for comprehensive reforms in this sector.
NationPress
01/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the landslide in Quetta?
The landslide was caused by a mass of earth collapsing in the coal mine, burying the miners underneath.
How many miners have died in recent coal mining incidents?
In recent incidents, four coal miners died in October, and two miners lost their lives in the latest landslide.
What actions have been taken after the incident?
The Chief Mines Inspector has ordered the coal mine to be sealed and has launched an inquiry into the incident.
What are the working conditions like in Balochistan's mines?
Mines in Balochistan are known for dangerous working conditions and lack of adequate safety standards, leading to frequent fatalities.
