4 killed in coal mine blast in southwest Pakistan

By Aamir Latif

KARACHI, Pakistan

At least four miners were killed early Wednesday in a coal mine blast in southwest Pakistan, local media reported.

The incident – the latest in a series of similar accidents -- occurred in the Chamalang area of Loralai district located some 96 miles from Quetta, the capital of mineral-rich Balochistan province, local broadcaster Geo News reported, quoting the provincial chief mines inspector.

One miner was also injured in the blast, which was believed to have been triggered by gas leakage, the official said.

All of the deceased and injured belonged to the same family.

Pakistan has a long history of coal mine accidents, mainly because of poor infrastructure and a lack of safety standards.

In May last year, 23 miners were killed in two coal mine blasts near Quetta.

The annual death toll from coal mine accidents averages around 200, according to the Pakistan Central Mines Labor Federation.