Minding mining conditions

Recent statements by the Balochistan mines and mineral department chief inspector to put in place better facilities and working conditions for mine workers in the province shows that the government cares for workers. His aim is to mitigate accidents and harm to human life, primarily by imparting adequate training to workers. We welcome the move though we are left in some bewilderment as to whether miners were receiving any kind of training prior to this decision and whether provisions outlined in the Mines Act of 1923, such as medical facilities and access to drinking water, had been adhered to ever.

If workers had not been receiving any training, it shows negligence but is not unfathomable. Vocational training in the country tends not to include a safety component whereas it should be the very first type of information given to new workers. The change in plans to impart more advanced training is, therefore, necessary and other sectors that are labour-intensive must follow suit. Worker productivity rise when workers know they are cared for and their safety is a priority.

However, in the matter of priorities, one is unsure whether the working conditions for coal miners, which have resulted in 65 deaths in the last year, was among the topmost pressing issues for the province. Perhaps, there were others such as security and education. In all fairness, the plan to provide miners with better working conditions should include better educational and medical facilities, as these reforms will increase output resulting in bolstering the economy.

Our energy infrastructure still heavily relies on the coal industry. It is, therefore, understandable why the working conditions and trainings for coal miners are being adjusted for improvement. Higher standards should encourage business all the while protecting the workers employed in the risky jobs. The most pertinent point to note is that all workers in the industry should receive basic safety training as the very first component of their orientation.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 4^th, 2018.

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