**Blast at Pakistan Coal Mine Complex Kills at Least 11, Dozens Missing**
A tragic explosion at a coal mine complex in Balochistan province, Pakistan, has resulted in the deaths of at least 11 miners, with dozens more reported missing. The incident occurred on Thursday in the Sorange area, located near the provincial capital of Quetta.
According to Shoaib Nosherwani, the Balochistan minister for mines and mineral development, there were 36 miners present in the section of the complex that collapsed due to the explosion. As of late Thursday night, he confirmed that 25 individuals remain unaccounted for.
Rescue operations are currently underway, with teams working at a depth of approximately 4,000 feet (1,219 meters) to locate the missing miners. Muhammad Atif, the chief inspector of mines in Balochistan, expressed cautious optimism about the rescue efforts, stating, "We are hopeful to find some miners alive, but chances are low."
The explosion was attributed to a powerful release of methane gas, which affected two adjacent mines. Abdul Ghani Baloch, a senior mining official in the region, provided further details on the nature of the incident, highlighting the dangers associated with mining operations in the area.
Mining accidents are not uncommon in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan, where safety regulations are often inadequately enforced. The region's mining industry has faced criticism for its poor safety standards, which have led to numerous fatalities in the past.
As rescue teams continue their efforts, the focus remains on locating the missing miners and providing assistance to the families affected by this devastating incident. The government has pledged to investigate the circumstances surrounding the explosion and to enhance safety measures in the mining sector to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.