Quetta, Pakistan – Two bodies were recovered from a collapsed coal mine in southern Pakistan, with fears that eight more workers may have lost their lives in the tragic incident. The mine, located in the mining region of Khost, suffered a gas explosion on Tuesday evening, trapping ten individuals approximately 800 feet below the ground.
According to Ghani Baloch, the chief inspector of mines for Balochistan province, rescue teams worked tirelessly overnight to retrieve the two deceased workers. Despite their efforts, hopes of finding the remaining workers alive are dwindling. A group of eight individuals who attempted to rescue their colleagues also found themselves in danger, but were eventually rescued by a government team, although some were unconscious.
Incidents like the one in Khost are unfortunately not uncommon in Pakistani mines, known for their dangerous working conditions and lack of safety standards. The cause of the explosion was determined to be an accumulation of carbon monoxide gas followed by a collapse within the mine. Government rescue teams, including those from the mining department and disaster management agency, are on site assisting with the rescue and recovery efforts.
The mining industry in Pakistan has long struggled with safety issues, leading to a high number of casualties over the years. As investigations into the cause of the explosion continue, authorities are emphasizing the importance of improving safety measures to prevent future tragedies. The tight-knit community of miners and their families are left mourning the loss of their loved ones as they wait for updates on the rescue operation.