Pakistan coal mine explosion kills at least 11, traps dozens

A coal mine explosion in Pakistan's Balochistan province has killed at least 32 miners. Rescue efforts are ongoing, though officials state the chances of finding survivors are extremely low.
Why it matters
The incident highlights systemic safety failures and poor regulation in Pakistan's mining industry, which remains a dangerous but essential source of livelihood.
Accidents are common in Pakistan’s coal mining industry, particularly in Balochistan, where many mines lack basic safety measures.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info A coal miner grieves after a mine collapse in the Sorange area, some 50 kilometres (31 miles) east of Quetta, on July 30, 2026 [AFP] By Faisal Aziz Khan and News Agencies Published On 30 Jul 2026 30 Jul 2026 At least 32 miners have been killed after an explosion tore through a coal mine in Pakistan’s southwestern Balochistan province, officials said, as hopes of finding survivors fade.
The deadly blast occurred on Thursday at a coal mine in Sorange, a remote area near the provincial capital Quetta, and was likely caused by a buildup of methane gas.
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