A methane explosion at the Sorange coalfield near Quetta has killed at least 34 miners and trapped dozens during a shift change. Rescue teams have recovered 34 bodies and rescued 22 survivors, officials said. Inspectors and unions blamed a buildup of methane and unsafe practices by some private mine operators. The provincial government has ordered a full investigation and pledged a review of mining safety measures.
Methane Explosion at Sorange Coalfield Kills 34, Traps Dozens Near Quetta
The explosion caused significant structural collapses
A methane gas explosion at the Sorange coalfield near Quetta in Balochistan, Pakistan, has killed at least 34 miners and trapped dozens more, officials and unions say.
Blast and Immediate Impact
The blast occurred during a shift change and struck about 4,000 feet underground, triggering severe structural collapses that killed several miners instantly and buried others beneath rubble. Rescue teams have recovered 34 bodies and freed 22 survivors, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported. Initial accounts said more than 50 workers were trapped after the explosion.
Accounts From Officials and Unions
Chief Inspector of Mines Muhammad Atif, quoted by The Hindu citing PTI, said 22 workers were initially trapped in the affected shaft and that additional workers at a neighbouring site were also impacted by the blast. Pir Muhammad Kakar of the All Pakistan Coal Miners Association blamed a lethal buildup of methane for the disaster and highlighted safety lapses by some private operators.
"When such explosions happen so deep underground, the chance of survival is low because they usually damage the entrance and exit points," Kakar said.
Response and Investigation
Balochistan Mines and Minerals Minister Shoaib Nosherwani said rescue operations are extremely challenging and announced a full investigation and a review of mining safety measures. The Pakistan Central Mines Labour Federation has called for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and demands tough action against companies found violating the law.
Broader Safety Concerns
Fatal accidents are common in Pakistan's coal mining sector, particularly in Balochistan, where many mines lack adequate ventilation, gas-detection systems and other essential safety protocols. Workers and labour organizations have long accused some mine owners of ignoring safety standards and failing to provide sufficient protective equipment.
Sources: PTI, The Hindu, Provincial Disaster Management Authority, statements from miners' associations and provincial officials.
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