Death toll in Quetta coal mine blast rises to 34

The death toll from a deadly coal mine explosion near Quetta has climbed to 34 after rescue teams recovered the bodies of eight more

QUETTA: The death toll from a deadly coal mine explosion near Quetta has climbed to 34 after rescue teams recovered the bodies of eight more miners from the site.

The incident occurred at a coal mine in the Sorange area, where dozens of workers were underground when a powerful methane gas explosion ripped through the mine.

According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), a total of 42 miners were trapped following the blast. Rescue teams have managed to recover 34 bodies so far, while efforts continue to locate the remaining workers.

Officials said the operation is being carried out under difficult conditions, with emergency personnel working around the clock to reach those still inside the mine.

The mine owner confirmed that 42 labourers were present in the mine at the time of the explosion. Preliminary findings suggest that methane gas accumulated inside the mine, triggering the deadly blast.

Balochistan Chief Minister has ordered an immediate report on the incident and directed authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. He warned that strict action would be taken against anyone found responsible if negligence or safety violations are established.

Coal mining accidents remain a recurring concern in Balochistan, where hazardous working conditions and poor safety standards have claimed numerous lives over the years. The latest disaster has once again raised questions about the enforcement of mine safety regulations and the protection of workers in the province’s mining sector.

Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities continue their search for the miners who remain unaccounted for.