Coal mine blast in Pakistan kills at least 18 miners and traps 24 others

An explosion inside a coal mine in southwest Pakistan killed at least 18 miners and trapped 24 others underground, officials said. The blast occurred on the outskirts of Quetta in Baluchistan and was believed to be triggered by a buildup of methane gas. Seven bodies were recovered first, followed by 11 more as rescue teams worked to reach those still trapped. Officials said oxygen levels after methane explosions could be fatal, but rescue operations continued under extremely difficult conditions. Authorities planned to investigate the cause and review mine safety.