The rescue operation launched after a coal mine accident in Balochistan’s Dukki district has been successfully completed. Out of six miners trapped inside the mine after a landslide, five were rescued alive while the body of one worker was recovered, officials confirmed.
According to the District Inspector of Mines, the incident occurred late last night when a mound of earth collapsed inside a coal mine, trapping six miners deep underground. The workers were reportedly carrying out mining activities at a depth of around 3,000 feet when the accident took place.
Rescue teams immediately began an emergency operation after receiving information about the incident. Authorities stated that rescuers worked continuously under difficult conditions to reach the trapped miners. After nearly 14 hours of efforts, the first miner was successfully brought out alive from the collapsed section of the mine.
Additional rescue teams and equipment were later deployed to speed up the operation. Following another several hours of intensive work, four more miners were safely rescued after nearly 20 hours of continuous rescue efforts. Officials said the rescued workers were shifted for medical examination and treatment.
During the final phase of the operation, rescue personnel recovered the body of the sixth miner, confirming his death in the accident. Authorities then officially declared the rescue operation complete.
The incident once again highlighted the dangerous working conditions faced by coal miners in different parts of Balochistan, where accidents in coal mines have occurred repeatedly over the years. Experts and labor rights activists have often raised concerns regarding safety standards, lack of modern equipment, and insufficient protective measures in the mining sector.
Coal mining remains one of the most hazardous professions in Pakistan, particularly in remote areas where workers often operate under difficult and risky conditions. Accidents caused by gas explosions, tunnel collapses, and landslides are not uncommon, and rescue operations can become extremely challenging due to the depth and structure of the mines.
Local authorities and mining officials have expressed sorrow over the loss of life and stated that an investigation into the incident will be conducted to determine the exact cause of the collapse. Officials also said efforts would be made to review safety procedures to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
