Abbottabad mine owners flout PHC orders

ABBOTTABAD:

Despite clear directives from the Peshawar High Court to refrain from using explosives for blasting in mines in Ghumawan, Abbottabad, mine owners have brazenly ignored the orders and continued with their activities.

The Peshawar High Court, Abbottabad Bench, on November 28, 2023, had issued an order, directing the respondent to not use explosive materials for blasting of mines. The court had also directed other respondents, including the Senior Inspector Mines Hazara Region and the District Police Officer Abbottabad to legally enforce their orders.

However, mine owners have disregarded the court's orders and continued blasting operations in violation of the directives. The Senior Inspector of Mines, Hazara Division, Abbottabad, had also issued a letter dated September 27, 2023, directing the mine owners to stop all blasting operations until the renewal of an explosive license and implementation of Standard Operating Procedures.

The defiance of the mine owners raises serious concerns about the safety of the local population and the environment. The high court's directives were aimed at preventing any potential mishaps and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. The continued blasting operations in disregard of the court's orders are a clear violation of the law and put the lives of many at risk.