Pakistan’s coal miners brave depths for better pay despite risks

In Pakistan’s Chakwal district, miners descend up to 1,100 feet below the surface to extract coal—a job offering higher wages than other local opportunities but little joy. For workers like Sultan Zaib, mining is a lifeline, albeit a dangerous one.

“No one chooses to work 4,000 to 5,000 feet underground out of joy,” Zaib told Nukta. A resident of Shangla, Swat, and the sole breadwinner for his family of seven, Zaib has spent 22 years mining coal. Working from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., he earns between PKR 1,500 and 2,000 daily—substantially more than jobs in cement factories or other industries.

Despite the hazards, Zaib commended his employer’s focus on safety. “This is the best safety equipment I've ever had, though I’m unaware if better equipment exists elsewhere,” he said, referring to the gear provided by the company.

Community of miners

Zaib is one of 38 workers in this mine, all hailing from Shangla, Swat. They are part of a labor network managed by Mustaqeen, who supplies workers to mining companies. Pay is determined by the weight of coal extracted, with miners earning PKR 2,400 to 2,600 per ton, according to Engineer Danial Afzal, the mine’s project manager.

Afzal, a four-year veteran of the industry, explained that miners typically extract 2 to 3 tons of coal daily. He added that underground mining offers not only better wages than surface industries but also improved safety.

Inside the mines

Sher Zaman, known locally as the "Mine Sardar," oversees operations. He guided Nukta through the mine, explaining the meticulous process of blasting, digging, and securing the tunnels with wooden supports to prevent collapses.

Cart tracks run through the mine, allowing coal to be transported efficiently. Shelters, illuminated by blue lights, are strategically placed every 60 to 70 feet, offering workers a safe space to avoid passing carts. White lights brighten the main tunnels, creating a sharp contrast to the otherwise dim surroundings.

Safety oversight

The Punjab government’s Junior Inspector of Mines, Muhammad Sharif, highlighted efforts to ensure worker welfare and mine safety. “There are 950 operational mines in Chakwal,” he told Nukta, noting that each is geotagged for tracking.

Sharif explained that inspectors conduct monthly checks, issuing show-cause notices and halting operations when safety violations are found. Mines remain sealed until issues are resolved.

“We prioritize safety and welfare,” Sharif stressed, pointing to the advanced gas-detection and oxygen-monitoring devices used in operations.

Trade-offs

While underground mining provides better wages and is considered safer than surface operations, the work takes a physical and emotional toll. For miners like Zaib, the job is a matter of survival.

“This work doesn’t bring happiness,” Zaib reflected. “But it feeds my family. That’s all that matters.”