South Asians for Human Rights, a regional network of human rights defenders, express its condolences to the families of Pakistani coal mine workers who were killed from a methane gas explosion. The tragedy, which occurred less than a week after International Worker’s Day (May Day) celebrations, highlights Pakistan’s appalling track record in labour rights.
On 6 May, two mines in Quetta, the capital of the mineral-rich province of Balochistan, exploded due to a methane gas build up. The explosion killed at least 23 workers. Mine accidents in these areas are common due to poor enforcement of safety regulations. The Pakistan Central Mines Labour Federation claims that on average, 200 mine workers die every year due to such accidents.
SAHR urges the government of Pakistan to provide fair compensation for the families of all victims, while strictly enforcing workplace safety measures to ensure that such man-made tragedies do not occur again.
On behalf of the members of South Asians for Human Rights
Sultana Kamal
Chairperson
Mohamed Latheef
Co-chairperson