Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri Expresses Grief Over Tragic Coal Mine Accident in Quetta
QUETTA: Chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights, Samina Mumtaz Zehri, has expressed profound sorrow over the loss of lives in the tragic coal mine accident in the Sorange area of Quetta, describing the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy for both the affected families and the entire nation.
In a condolence statement, Senator Zehri said coal miners are the silent backbone of the country’s economy, working under extremely hazardous conditions to provide for their families. She stressed that ensuring their safety is a shared responsibility of the state, relevant authorities, and mine owners, and that any negligence in this regard is unacceptable.
She extended her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, prayed for eternal peace for the deceased, strength and patience for their loved ones, and a swift recovery for those injured in the incident.
The senator called on the Government of Balochistan and the relevant authorities to conduct an immediate, transparent, and impartial investigation into the accident, identify those responsible, and implement effective long-term measures to prevent similar tragedies.
She emphasized the need to make modern safety systems, gas monitoring, proper ventilation, emergency rescue facilities, and regular safety inspections mandatory in coal mines.
Senator Zehri also urged mine owners to prioritize the safety of workers over profits by ensuring the provision of protective equipment, proper training, and strict compliance with internationally recognized safety standards and protocols.
She said that no financial gain can compensate for the loss of human life and that investment in workplace safety is, in reality, an investment in protecting lives.
Concluding her statement, Senator Zehri said every miner represents hope and support for their family, adding that preventing such tragedies is not only an administrative responsibility but also a national, moral, and humanitarian obligation. She called for a coordinated strategy by the government, relevant institutions, and mine owners to ensure that coal miners in Balochistan can work in a safe and secure environment.
