Islamabad: The Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development convened to address the recent coal mine tragedy in Balochistan, urging a review of mining leases and recommending the registration of mine workers. The committee also called for a Council of Common Interests meeting to discuss the devolution of the Workers Welfare Fund.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the committee, led by Chair Syed Rafiullah, expressed sorrow over the loss of lives in the Balochistan coal mine incident. The committee highlighted the lack of regulation and enforcement at mine sites, noting many workers remain unregistered, impacting their families’ access to compensation. The committee insisted on registering workers employed for three months or more and emphasized establishing connections with provincial mines departments for effective registration.

The committee addressed the absence of emergency care facilities in mining areas, stressing the need for visible enforcement of safety protocols. The Secretary of the Inter-Provincial Coordination Division noted the continuation of existing provincial arrangements pending legal amendments. The committee recommended convening a Council of Common Interests meeting to prioritize Workers Welfare Fund devolution.

Additionally, the committee sought details on interest earned from Workers Welfare Fund deposits and called for a forensic audit of expenditures. The Federal Investigation Agency’s inquiry into the Protectorate of Emigrants was also discussed, with the ministry aiming to digitize processes to reduce malpractice. The meeting was attended by several MNAs and senior officials from relevant ministries.