(FreePressBeacon.com) – In an unexpected triumph amid Afghanistan’s mining perils, all 22 miners trapped in a collapsed mine in Samangan province were rescued with no casualties.
See the tweet below!
These events highlight long-standing concerns over inadequate mining oversight in Taliban-controlled regions.
The mine collapse occurred late Saturday in the Dara-i Sof Payin district, initially trapping 32 individuals.
Intense rescue efforts with heavy machinery and torchlight began early Sunday.
Fortunately, authorities confirmed that 22 people had been successfully rescued, with no lives lost.
The narrow shafts posed challenges alongside the threat of gas buildup and pressure risks. The lack of professional rescue teams raised doubts about the operation’s success.
“Twenty-two people were trapped, and all of them have been rescued,” announced Esmat Muradi.
Afghanistan’s mining past is checkered with disasters, like the 2022 Baghlan collapse, killing 10, and a 2020 Samangan gas blast claiming seven lives.
The country lacks proper oversight, often leading to tragedy. In this instance, however, swift action prevented another addition to that sorrowful list, according to a report by Barron’s.
Rescuers succeeded in reopening the mine entrance using excavators, working tirelessly beyond nightfall on Sunday.
Miners rescued from collapsed Afghan coal mine#Afghanistan #MiddleEast https://t.co/hHUrhInzxz
— The Peninsula Qatar (@PeninsulaQatar) December 15, 2024
Though the mine’s type remained unspecified, Samangan officials focused on extracting copper and coal—vital resources despite dangerous conditions.
Undoubtedly, this rescue offers a rare glimmer of hope amidst prevalent mining tragedies, demonstrating the courage of Afghan miners and their families.
Until substantial reforms are enacted, avoidable mining disasters remain a likely occurrence in these under-regulated sectors.
Copyright 2024, FreePressBeacon.com
