Judicial probe demanded into Sorange tragedy

The Pakistan Central Mines Labour Federation (PCMLF) has called for a judicial investigation into the devastating methane gas explosion at the Sorange coalfield near Quetta that claimed the lives of 36 miners, urging the federal and Balochistan governments to undertake comprehensive reforms to improve safety standards across Pakistan's mining sector.

Addressing a press conference at the Quetta Press Club on Saturday, federation leaders expressed profound grief over the loss of the miners, describing the incident as a tragic reminder of the hazardous conditions faced daily by thousands of coal workers. They extended condolences to the bereaved families and offered prayers for the deceased, many of whom were the sole breadwinners of their households.

The labour leaders said repeated mining disasters expose serious shortcomings in the enforcement of safety regulations, adding that expressions of sympathy alone are insufficient without meaningful action to protect workers. They stressed the need for practical and long-term measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The federation demanded the formation of a high-level judicial commission to investigate the Sorange disaster, identify the causes of the explosion and fix responsibility on those found negligent. It also urged the authorities to initiate strict legal proceedings against individuals responsible for any lapses in safety compliance.

Calling for immediate relief measures, the PCMLF urged the government and the Pakistan Mineral Development Corporation (PMDC) to provide special financial assistance to the families of the deceased and injured miners. It also proposed that one eligible member of each affected family be offered permanent government employment to help secure their livelihoods.

The federation further pressed the government to ratify and fully implement the International Labour Organization's Convention No 176 on Safety and Health in Mines, arguing that adopting internationally recognised safety standards is essential to reducing workplace hazards in Pakistan's mining industry.

Among its other recommendations, the labour body called for strengthening the office of the Chief Inspector of Mines, suspending operations at hazardous mines until comprehensive safety inspections are completed, and ensuring that all mines maintain accurate records of workers, including employment details, insurance coverage and legal documentation.

The federation also urged authorities to make safety training mandatory for miners, supervisors and mine operators and to equip mining sites with modern gas detection systems, reliable communication equipment and emergency rescue facilities to minimise the risk of future accidents.