Duki aftermath: Coalminers to lobby for rights

QUETTA:

Some 60,000 coalminers have signed up for a countrywide campaign to press for better wages and rights.

The proposed drive comes days after a gas explosion led to the collapse of a mine in Duki coalfield, killing at least eight miners.

The National Labour Federation (NLF) decided to start the rights movement in an effort to protect workers employed in one of the most life-threatening sectors.

It will launch its movement from March 7, its central leader Shamsur Rehman Swati said. A labour convention will also be held in Lahore on March 10.

Meanwhile, PML-N MNA from Shangla district Dr Ibadullah Khan said he will move legislation for better working conditions in the mines.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 2^nd, 2015.