Protest erupts over closure of mines
Laborers and contractors in Balochistan’s Mach Bolan area staged a passionate protest on Friday, venting their frustrations over the prolonged closure of coal mines in the region.
Their voices were heard loud and clear as they rallied through the streets of Mach town, converging outside the Mach Press Club to express their grievances.
Mir Ahmed Jan Kurd, a prominent leader of the Mines Owners Association, voiced their collective demand, saying, “We urgently call for the reopening of our coal mines, which provide livelihoods to thousands of families.” The leaders of the mine owners and laborers association took the stage, echoing the urgent need to resume mining operations.
The protesters, wielding placards and banners inscribed with slogans, directed their frustrations at both the Mach administration and the Balochistan government. They decried the failure to reopen the coal mines, emphasizing the dire consequences it has wrought.
Mir Shah Nawaz Marri, another mine owner, highlighted the stark reality: “The closure of these mines has left thousands of laborers without work.”
Despite repeated appeals and pleas, the provincial government has yet to take decisive action to restore coal mining in the area. As a result, the protesters were left with no choice but to take to the streets, facing financial hardship and unemployment amid record-high inflation in the country.
Marri made it clear that their cause was devoid of any political motive or suspicion towards any institution. Their sole plea was for the government to reconsider its decision, recognizing the impact it has on their livelihoods.
“The government’s actions appear illogical, and we implore the higher authorities not to strip us of our means of sustenance,” he added.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 23rd, 2023.