On August 6, 2025, authorities launched a significant rescue operation in Malook Abad, Swat district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, after the collapse of an emerald mine trapped several workers underground. Rescue 1122 Swat responded promptly, with District Emergency Officer Rafiullah Marwat personally overseeing the operation.
Spokesperson Shafiqa Gul stated, “We immediately dispatched a specialised disaster response team equipped with modern tools, ambulances, and medical personnel to assist the trapped individuals.”
Four mine rescuers entered the collapsed shaft, supported by additional resources from nearby mines and emergency units. Gul emphasised, “We are doing everything in our capacity to ensure a safe and successful rescue.” The operation, which began Wednesday evening, involves advanced tools to navigate the unstable environment, with medical teams on standby to treat survivors. The urgency reflects the high stakes of saving trapped workers in a region known for its hazardous mining practices.
Local residents and eyewitnesses, including Abid Ali Jan, expressed concerns over the lack of scientific methods and safety measures in Swat’s emerald mines. Jan told Dawn.com, “These mines are run in an entirely unscientific and unregulated manner,” highlighting neglected safety protocols in pursuit of profit. Ihasanullah, a Malook Abad resident, noted illegal mining activities weakening land under nearby homes, stating, “Despite complaints, authorities do not take action.” These issues underscore chronic regulatory failures in the region’s mining sector.
Swat’s emerald mines, nestled in lush mountains, have long faced criticism for poor oversight, putting workers at risk. The collapse has reignited calls for standardised safety frameworks, mandatory training, and stricter enforcement to prevent future tragedies. As anxious families gather near the site, the incident highlights the urgent need for reform to protect miners and local communities.
