Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti has expressed concern over the series of fatal accidents in coal mines. Presiding over a meeting in Quetta on Tuesday, the Chief Minister expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of the inspection teams of the Mines Department. Expressing his anger, the Chief Minister said it is not justified that inspectors cannot go to the mines citing law and order situation.  If the employees who have been recruited for the work for which they are not able to do their job then they should resign and sit at home, said a visibly angry Balochistan Chief Minister. 

He directed the responsibility for the accidents must be clearly determined and the responsible must be punished.  Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti said the second accident in the same company within a year seems to be a sign of irresponsibility.  The Chief Minister ordered the immediate arrest of the accused named in the Sanjadi mine accident. The Chief Minister further ordered to suspend the inspector in the Sanjadi mine accident and transfer the investigation to Chief Minister’s Inspection Team (CMIT). Chief Minister directed Mines and Minerals Department that safety measures should be taken for the modern mining module in the world.

 He further directed that regular inspection of mines should be ensured at all costs. Rescue and Training Wing should be equipped with all modern technology, Mir Sarfaraz Bugti directed. Chief Minister ordered the Mines and Minerals Department to prepare a comprehensive proposal and government will provide required resources.  Early payment of compensation to workers died in accidents should be ensured, Chief Minister ordered. He directed to ensure registration of all mine workers with the relevant authority.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)