Mining unions in Pakistan are calling for stronger workplace safety measures following more than 100 reported mine worker deaths this year.
IndustriALL affiliates Pakistan Mine Workers Federation and Pakistan Central Mines Labour Federation are pressing for improved enforcement, medical monitoring and greater worker involvement in safety decisions.
Mining fatalities raise concerns
Weeks before 36 workers were killed in Sorange, the Pakistan Mine Workers Federation submitted a report to authorities identifying recurring causes of mining accidents.
According to IndustriALL, previous years have seen more than 300 mining fatalities and over 3,000 serious injuries annually, with underreporting potentially concealing further incidents.
Unions have highlighted inadequate safety enforcement, limited social protection and insecure employment as contributing factors.
Occupational health risks in mining
The Pakistan Central Mines Labour Federation recently organised two medical camps, examining 105 miners.
Although all were declared fit for work, doctors identified respiratory disease, high blood pressure and blood borne infections as potential concerns.
Recommendations included improved ventilation, respiratory protection, safer shift arrangements and regular medical assessments.
Following union campaigning, a permanent ambulance service was introduced at Shahrag Coalfield in Balochistan on 20 September.
Calls for international mining standards
Both unions are urging Pakistan to ratify International Labour Organization Convention 176, which addresses occupational safety and health in mines.
Their demands include gas detection, ventilation, rescue arrangements and stronger worker participation in safety management.
Mine safety training planned
On 3 August, a safety programme at Zamarud Mines brought together 227 workers, managers, contractors and inspectors.
IndustriALL plans further training during 2027, covering dust exposure, risk assessment, accident reporting and workers’ rights to refuse dangerous work.
The programme will also address hazards affecting women in mining.
Unions hope these measures will improve protection across formal and informal mining operations throughout Pakistan.
Emmanuel Adjei-Danso, IndustriALL Mining Director, said: “Safety cannot end at the mine exit. The dust workers breathe today can take their health years from now. That is why health has to be at the heart of the work we do.”
Atle Høie, IndustriALL General Secretary, said, “In Islamabad, the government committed to moving forward on ratification of C176 alongside the two fundamental conventions on safety and health. What we haven’t had is continuity. We’ll keep going back to the table, because miners are paying the price of every delay.”
