Balochistan mine gas blast death toll rises to 34

The death toll from a methane gas explosion at a coal mine in Pakistan's Balochistan province has risen to 34, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority said on Friday. The blast occurred Thursday in the Sorange area, triggering a collapse that trapped 41 miners. Rescue teams continue searching for remaining miners.

Chief Inspector of Mines Muhammad Atif told Dawn that the blast was likely caused by methane gas accumulation at a depth of around 4,000 feet. He noted that most coal mine explosions in Balochistan involve methane gas. Local media reported that safety concerns have been raised by residents and labour organisations about working conditions in Pakistan's coal mines.