QUETTA: At least 34 miners were killed after a powerful Quetta coal mine explosion ripped through a private coal mine in the Spin Karez area of Balochistan on Friday, officials confirmed.

According to Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind, the explosion is believed to have been caused by a buildup of methane gas, triggering a massive collapse deep inside the mine and trapping dozens of workers underground.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said 41 miners were inside the mine when the explosion occurred.

So far, 34 bodies have been recovered, while rescue teams continue searching for the remaining trapped miners.

“The joint rescue operation is still underway to locate and recover the remaining trapped miners,” the PDMA said in a statement.

Emergency personnel worked throughout the night as heavy machinery and specialized rescue teams attempted to reach the affected sections of the mine.

Officials said the blast caused a major collapse inside the coal mine, burying workers at a depth of approximately 2,500 to 3,000 feet.

Chief Inspector of Mines Muhammad Atif said the explosion also destroyed an alternate ventilation shaft, severely disrupting the supply of fresh air and oxygen to the underground tunnels.

The damaged ventilation system has made rescue operations significantly more difficult and hazardous.

Authorities said most of the deceased miners belonged to Shangla district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Following identification and completion of legal formalities at Civil Hospital Quetta, the bodies of 11 victims were sent to their hometowns for burial.

Officials are continuing the identification process for the remaining victims

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti took immediate notice of the tragedy and directed the Mines and Minerals Department to submit a detailed report.

He also ordered a transparent inquiry to determine the exact cause of the explosion, identify any negligence, and recommend measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Balochistan Minister for Mines and Minerals Shoaib Nosherwani expressed condolences to the bereaved families and announced financial assistance for those affected.

Under the government’s relief package:

• Rs500,000 will be provided to the family of each deceased miner.
• Rs300,000 will be paid to every injured worker.

Mining accidents remain a recurring concern in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan, where coal mining is considered one of the country’s most hazardous occupations.

Labour rights organizations have repeatedly urged authorities to strengthen mine safety regulations, improve ventilation systems, enforce safety inspections, and ensure employers comply with occupational health standards to reduce the risk of fatal accidents.

The latest Quetta coal mine explosion has once again highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures across Pakistan’s mining industry.