QUETTA, Pakistan (AP) – A serious incident occurred late Thursday night in the town of Singidi, located in Balochistan province, when a methane gas explosion led to the collapse of a coal mine, resulting in at least 12 miners becoming trapped inside. This alarming event has prompted immediate rescue operations by authorities in a remote area of southwest Pakistan, where teams are working diligently to reach the miners.
Abdul Ghani, a mines inspector, confirmed that rescuers are conducting careful operations to remove debris from the collapsed mine. Despite their efforts, none of the trapped miners have been located as of now, which raises concerns about their survival. Shahid Rind, the Balochistan government spokesman, stated that all available resources are being mobilized to assist in the ongoing rescue efforts. Furthermore, an investigation has been commissioned to ascertain the specific reasons behind the mine's collapse, reflecting the government's commitment to ensuring mine safety.
In recent years, safety standards within Pakistan's coal mining industry have often been criticized for being inadequate, resulting in numerous accidents and fatalities. This incident highlights the need for stringent safety measures to protect miners working under high-risk conditions.
On the same day, a separate incident unfolded as Pakistani security forces successfully rescued at least eight out of 16 mine workers who had been kidnapped by local militants. This indicates the various challenges faced by workers in the mining sector, including the risks not only from mining conditions but also from local lawlessness.
Meanwhile, concerns in neighboring India are rising as the search continues for individuals trapped in a flooded coal mine in Assam state. As of Friday, hope seems to be dwindling on the fifth day of rescue operations that have been hampered by rising water levels. The mishap occurred when at least nine miners were trapped after water surged into the mine from a neighboring abandoned site in the Umrangso area of Dima Hasao district, approximately 125 miles (200 kilometers) south of Assam's state capital, Guwahati.
Rescue teams, including army divers, have been working tirelessly, but efforts have yet to yield successful outcomes. On Wednesday, they unfortunately retrieved the body of one miner, highlighting the tragic reality of the situation. Local government minister Kaushik Rai reported that the mine remains flooded, with water levels not receding despite extensive pumping efforts, complicating the rescue missions further.
As these tragic incidents unfold in both Pakistan and India, they serve as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with coal mining and the urgent need for improved safety regulations and emergency response strategies to protect workers in this hazardous industry.
