A coal mine gas leak claimed 11 lives in Quetta, Chief Mines Inspector Abdul Ghani Baloch said on Monday.

Ghani Baloch said the tragedy took place in the UC Sanjadi coal mine, some 40 kilometres from Quetta city.

Nine workers, one contractor and a mine manager are dead, the official added.  

All the deceased are from Swat. After offering the funeral, the bodies will be sent to their native towns.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi expressed deep sorrow and grief over the loss of lives.

He extended his heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the bereaved families.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of precious lives in the tragic incident,” he said.

He prayed the Almighty may rest the departed souls in eternal peace and grant courage to the bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss with fortitude.