A powerful explosion in the Shahrag area of Harnai claimed the lives of at least 11 labourers and injured four others on Friday, Deputy Commissioner Hazrat Wali Kakar confirmed.
Initially, reports indicated that nine labourers had died and six were injured when the blast occurred near a vehicle transporting coal miners. However, two of the injured later succumbed to their wounds. Deputy Commissioner Kakar verified the updated casualty figures.
According to local levies, the blast was likely caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) planted on the roadside, which detonated near a vehicle carrying coal miners.
Following the explosion, security personnel secured the area while rescue teams transferred the deceased and injured to medical facilities. Authorities reported that some of the injured laborers remain in critical condition, and arrangements are being made to transport them to Quetta for further treatment.
Shahrag, known for its coal mines, has witnessed several bomb attacks in recent times. However, the latest explosion has resulted in significantly higher casualties compared to previous incidents.
Mines department officials stated that most of the miners affected in the blast were from Swat and Shangla.
The spokesperson for the Balochistan government expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident and stated that an investigation into the blast has been ordered.
