Quetta (Pakistan): At least 32 miners were killed after a powerful explosion ripped through a coal mine in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province. Rescue teams are continuing efforts to reach around 10 workers who are still believed to be trapped inside the mine.

The incident occurred on the outskirts of Quetta, the provincial capital, where officials suspect a build-up of methane gas triggered the blast.

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Methane gas suspected as cause of explosion

Government mine inspector Ghani Baloch said preliminary findings suggest that accumulated methane gas inside the mine may have caused the explosion. Authorities are investigating the exact circumstances that led to the deadly accident.

Death toll rises during rescue operation

According to officials and the provincial disaster management agency, rescue workers initially recovered seven bodies within hours of the blast. As the search continued, another 25 bodies were pulled from the mine, taking the death toll to 32. Emergency teams are still searching for approximately 10 miners believed to be trapped underground.

Officials said search and rescue operations will continue until every trapped worker is located. Mine inspector Ghani Baloch warned that the number of fatalities could increase as rescuers reach deeper sections of the mine.

Rescue personnel are facing difficult conditions while working to clear debris and access the affected area.

Compensation announced for victims' families

Balochistan's Minister for Minerals and Mines, Shoaib Nosherwani, expressed condolences to the families of the deceased workers. He acknowledged the difficult conditions under which rescue teams are operating and assured that every possible effort is being made to reach those still trapped.

The provincial government has announced compensation of 500,000 Pakistani rupees (approximately USD 1,800) for the family of each worker who died in the explosion.