Surrange Coal Mine Explosion: Two Dead, Over 25 Miners Trapped Near Quetta

Quetta – (Staff Reporter/Web Desk) – A deadly Surrange coal mine explosion has shaken the coal fields near Quetta, leaving more than 25 miners trapped deep underground. The blast struck on Thursday and set off an urgent, round-the-clock rescue mission that is still underway.

So far, rescue crews have pulled three miners out alive. Sadly, two workers did not survive. Their bodies were recovered from the wreckage early in the operation.

The tragedy unfolded at the Sardar Usman Lease, a coal site in the Surrange belt known for its rich but risky coal seams. Officials say built-up methane gas ignited deep inside the mine, setting off a powerful blast.

The explosion caused a major collapse inside the tunnels. Exit routes were blocked almost instantly, sealing in dozens of workers who had no way out.

Rescue teams from the Provincial Disaster Management Authority, along with the Mines Rescue Department and local district staff, rushed to the site. Their first task was clearing the debris blocking the tunnel entrances.

Toxic gas pockets remain a major danger inside the mine. Crews are now using powerful exhaust systems to pump out the bad air and restore safe ventilation.

This step is critical. Without clean air flow, rescuers cannot safely move deeper into the mine to search for survivors still trapped below.

Balochistan’s Mines and Minerals Minister, Mir Shohaib Nosherwani, confirmed that the rescue effort is being closely watched by top officials. He said Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti is personally directing the response.

According to the minister, senior figures including the Chief Inspector of Mines and PDMA officials are stationed at the site. Their job is to oversee every stage of the rescue and keep the operation moving quickly.

The minister also promised full support for the families affected by this disaster. He added that the government will enforce stricter mine safety rules going forward.

This is not the first time tragedy has struck Balochistan’s coal belt. Areas like Surrange, Mach, and Dukki have seen repeated methane explosions and mine collapses over the years.

Experts have long warned about poor ventilation systems in many private coal mines. Many sites also lack modern gas detection tools, leaving workers exposed to hidden dangers underground.

Labour unions and civil society groups are now demanding a full and honest investigation. They want those responsible held accountable, and they are pushing for stronger safety enforcement across the region’s mining industry.

For now, all eyes remain on the rescue site. Families of the trapped miners are anxiously waiting for news, hoping their loved ones will be brought out safely.

As ventilation improves and debris clears, rescue teams hope to reach the remaining trapped workers soon. The coming hours are expected to be critical in determining how many more lives can be saved.

This incident has once again put a spotlight on the urgent need for better mine safety standards in Balochistan, a region where coal mining remains both a livelihood and a lasting risk.