Human Rights Commission Report Highlights Perils Faced by Coal Workers in Balochistan

Quetta:A recent fact-finding report by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) sheds light on the grave dangers faced by laborers associated with coal mines in Balochistan. The report, released in November 2022, reveals that these workers are vulnerable not only due to the lack of health and safety measures, resulting in frequent accidents, but also face abduction and killings at the hands of extremist groups.

Habib Tahir, HRCP’s representative in Balochistan, expressed concerns over the exploitation of security funds by coal mine owners and the inadequate protection provided to both mine owners and workers residing in mountainous regions. Despite payments made to the state in the name of security, neither the mine owners nor the miners themselves are adequately safeguarded.

In March of the previous year, unidentified assailants abducted seven miners, who were released 38 days later in May. Further incidents in June last year saw approximately 50 coal-laden trucks fired upon and set ablaze in separate incidents in Ziarat and Harnai. In response to these events, transporters twice halted coal supplies in June and October, protesting against the hazards and ongoing attacks.

The escalating risks and persistent assaults have left coal industry workers, truck drivers, contractors, and owners living in constant fear, severely impacting their livelihoods and businesses. A affected truck driver recounted how masked attackers threatened drivers and workers with violence, warning that any future coal shipments would not be forgiven.

The widespread apprehension among truck drivers underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures and protections for all those involved in the coal sector in Balochistan.