A methane gas explosion occurred at a coal mine in the Sorange region of Balochistan, Pakistan. The blast caused a structural collapse at the facility, which is operated by the Sardar Usman Coal Company.
Provincial administration inspector Ghani Baloch reported the methane explosion and identified the mine operator. Following the incident, Mir Shoaib Nosherwani, the Minister of Mines and Minerals of Balochistan, stated that a rescue operation began immediately after the collapse.
Minister Nosherwani confirmed that six bodies have been recovered and stated that the rescue operation continues. However, reports on the total number of fatalities differ. While official statements cite six deaths, other sources report that at least 11 miners were killed in the explosion. Currently, 42 miners remain trapped underground.
Mining accidents are common in Pakistan's coal mining industry, especially in Balochistan. These incidents are frequently attributed to methane explosions, inadequate ventilation systems, and a lack of safety measures.
Updates
Authorities and sources report conflicting death tolls, with estimates ranging between 32 and 34 fatalities, while 10 miners remain trapped at the site located 50km from Quetta. Mine owner Qurban Jogezai stated that 42 laborers were present during the explosion, which also damaged two adjacent mines. Balochistan's Minister for Mines and Minerals Shoaib Nosherwani has announced compensation of 500,000 Pakistani rupees per victim and promised a formal investigation alongside a province-wide safety review.
Authorities now report that 34 bodies have been recovered from the mine in the Sorange area, located 50km from Quetta, while 10 miners remain trapped. Rescue operations are ongoing at a depth of 4,000 feet, although officials warn that chances of survival are diminishing due to oxygen depletion. Mine owner Qurban Jogezai stated that 42 laborers were on-site during the explosion, which also damaged two adjacent mines, while provincial officials have pledged an investigation and compensation of 500,000 Pakistani rupees per victim.
While initial reports mentioned six recovered bodies, the provincial disaster management authority now reports that 34 bodies have been recovered. Disputed figures regarding the total death toll range between 32 and 34, with conflicting reports on whether 10 miners remain trapped or only two are still missing. Additionally, Balochistan's Minister for Mines and Minerals Shoaib Nosherwani has announced compensation of 500,000 Pakistani rupees for each victim's family.
While the initial report noted six bodies recovered, provincial disaster management authorities now report that 34 bodies have been retrieved. Disputed reports suggest the death toll could be at least 34, with some sources indicating 32 fatalities and 10 miners remaining trapped, though another claim states only two miners are still missing. Additionally, Balochistan's Minister for Mines and Minerals Shoaib Nosherwani announced compensation of 500,000 Pakistani rupees for each victim's family.
While initial reports identified 32 deceased miners, authorities now report that the death toll has reached at least 34, though 10 workers are still believed to be trapped under the collapse. Balochistan's Minister for Mines and Minerals, Shoaib Nosherwani, has announced compensation of 500,000 Pakistani rupees for each victim's family. The explosion is confirmed to have occurred in the Sorange area, approximately 50km from Quetta, due to methane gas buildup.
