Webdesk: Four miners trapped in an emerald mine collapse in the Babuzai area of Swat were successfully rescued by Pakistan Army and Rescue 1122 teams after a lengthy operation on Wednesday evening.
The incident occurred during drainage work when a section of the mine suddenly caved in, trapping the workers nearly 900 feet underground.
Upon receiving the alert, teams from the Pakistan Army and Rescue 1122 rushed to the scene. The rescue operation, which lasted several hours, involved more than 40 personnel and was led by Swat District Emergency Officer Rafiullah Marwat.
According to Rescue 1122 spokesperson Bilal Ahmad Faizi, “Thanks to modern equipment and a well-trained team, this difficult rescue mission was successfully completed.” Medical teams were on-site to provide immediate first aid to the rescued miners, who were reported to be out of danger.
The rescued workers and local residents expressed their gratitude to the Army and emergency services, chanting slogans like “Pakistan Zindabad” and “Long live Pakistan.”
Swat’s mining sector has long faced criticism for poor safety standards. Experts say this incident once again highlights the urgent need for comprehensive reforms and strict enforcement of safety regulations in the mining industry.
It’s worth noting that in November last year, two miners died in the same area after a lift cable snapped in another emerald mine, raising serious concerns about ongoing safety lapses.
While Thursday’s successful rescue operation saved lives, the incident stands as yet another warning about the dire need to improve safety protocols in Pakistan’s mining sector.
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