18 miners trapped underground after mine explosion in Harnai

QUETTA: Eighteen miners have been trapped underground after an explosion in coal mine in Harnai district of Balochistan.

According to media reports, rescue efforts are underway to recover the trapped miners after a tragedy occurred due to gas accumulation.

Chief Inspector Mines Balochistan, Abdul Ghani, said that the mine collapse occurred in the Zard Alu area of Harnai. As a result, eighteen miners remain trapped inside the mine,

He said two rescue teams have been dispatched from Shahrigh and Quetta to assist the rescue mission. He said efforts are underway to rescue the trapped miners.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has expressed deep grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives as a result of an explosion in a coal mine in Harnai.

The prime minister directed to accelerate efforts for the rescue of remaining miners.  He said all possible medical treatment be provided to the injured miners.

He added that such incidents are very painful and sad and they stand with the affected families in this hour of grief. He said the government will provide all possible relief to the injured and affected families.

The incident highlights the precarious working conditions prevailing in coal mines, where approximately 100,000 workers in 3000 mines with inadequate safety measures and face life-threatening risks.

Regrettably, such accidents claim the lives of more than a 100 miners annually, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols and vigilance in the mining sector.