Ahmed Khan Malik

The coal mining industry in Balochistan has experienced a significant downturn due to escalating unrest and security concerns, and needs robust regulatory enforcement to ensure the safety of both its workforce and operations.

Over the past year, more than 200 coal mines have been shut down, leading to a sharp decline in coal production — from 3.5 million tonnes annually to just 1.6 million tonnes, people associated with the coal mining sector told WealthPK. The Duki district, a key coal-producing area, has been particularly affected.

In response to these challenges, the Balochistan government has announced plans to hire 1,000 security personnel on a contractual basis to safeguard the coal mines in Duki. This initiative aims to ensure the safety of miners and restore production levels that have been severely impacted by the ongoing unrest.

“The situation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to address safety and security issues in Balochistan's coal mining industry,” said Adil Kakar, a mine owner, adding that implementing effective safety protocols, providing proper safety training, and ensuring the use of standard equipment are essential steps to protect miners and stabilise coal production in the region.

Latif Samejo, a coal sector expert, said the Balochistan’s coal mining industry is a linchpin of Pakistan’s energy portfolio. He said that robust data, academically driven perspectives, and empirical insights collectively underscore the gravity of safety concerns, necessitating a harmonised approach involving regulatory reform, technological integration, and community empowerment.

“Addressing these imperatives is not just a matter of ethical responsibility; it is integral to ensuring the sustainability and responsible development of the coal mining sector in Balochistan,” he said. Apart from the security concerns, he pointed out that despite the existence of robust regulations such as the Mines Act, 1923, and the Mines Rules, 2004, the practical enforcement of these statutes remains a formidable challenge.

“An in-depth audit reveals that a mere 20% of mining operations undergo regular inspections, rendering the regulatory framework largely inefficacious,” he said. Samejo said that critical evaluations underscore that strengthening the institutions responsible for regulatory oversight is paramount. “Pertinent audits conducted by independent agencies illuminate that, on average, only 40% of safety violations are expeditiously addressed, indicating a systemic lacuna in regulatory enforcement.”

He said that empirical investigations by the Pakistan Institute of Labour Education and Research disclose a marked deficiency in collaboration between government entities, mining companies, and workers’ representatives. “Augmenting these partnerships through routine dialogues and cooperative initiatives can markedly enhance safety standards within the coal mining sector,” he said.

Credit: INP-WealthPk