Workers Protest Against Closure Of Coal Mine in Mogla, Kalakote

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

LIAQAT ALI KHATANA

RAJOURI JUNE 30:- In a move that has triggered unrest among workers, the coal mine operating in the Mogla area of sub-district Kalakote has remained shut for the past four days without prior notice. The sudden halt has particularly affected temporary employees, many of whom rely solely on this employment for their livelihood.

Expressing their frustration, temporary workers including Suresh Kumar, Mohammad Hanif, and Ravi Kumar shared that they have been barred from entering the site for four consecutive days. “We are not being assigned any work, while the permanent workers are still being allowed inside to operate pumps,” said one of the workers. “We earn ₹10,000 per month, and this is our only source of income. For years, we have worked in this mine. Now, every morning we come hoping work will resume, but we are forced to wait outside all day and return home empty-handed.”

The workers alleged that there has been no clarity from the administration regarding the sudden closure, leading to growing distress among their families. They warned that if the mine is not reopened soon, they will be compelled to launch a strong protest in the coming days.

When contacted, the Managing Director of the coal mine, P.K. Sharma, clarified the reason behind the closure. “The mine was shut on the orders of the Director of Coal Safety. However, efforts are being made to restart operations at the earliest,” Sharma assured.

Meanwhile, the temporary workers continue to wait, demanding immediate intervention by the concerned authorities to restore their employment and prevent further escalation.