Tragic Coal Mine Collapse in West Bengal Claims Lives

Devastating Incident in West Bardhaman

A tragic event has unfolded in the West Bardhaman district of West Bengal. On the morning of January 13, a significant accident occurred when an open-cast coal mine near Asansol collapsed. This incident resulted in the loss of three lives, while two others were rescued safely. The mishap took place in the Barira area of the Kulti police station jurisdiction. The mine is operated by Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), a public sector company. Due to economic hardships, workers illegally entered the mine to extract coal, a common yet perilous practice in the region. The sudden landslide trapped them under debris, leading to chaos as locals rushed to the scene.

Rescue Operations and Casualties

Rescue efforts commenced swiftly, involving BCCL officials, police teams, and heavy machinery like JCBs. A local named Poddar witnessed the recovery of the first body, followed by the discovery of two more. The two survivors were admitted to hospitals in critical condition, although detailed information regarding their status is still awaited.

Official Statements and Allegations

Initially, neither the police nor mine officials released official casualty figures, which heightened uncertainty. These incidents highlight the dangers of unauthorized access, with locals alleging that the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) guards and mine operators often overlook such intrusions. West Bardhaman District Magistrate Ponnambalam S stated, "An investigation is underway to determine what happened. We will provide more information once the inquiry is complete." In contrast, BJP legislator Ajay Poddar made explosive claims, accusing police, central forces, and a coal mafia 'syndicate' of complicity. He stated, "They were extracting coal from rat holes. This is a syndicate involving central forces, police, and the mafia. The villagers are the ones who suffer. This is prevalent throughout Bengal," he told the media. These allegations point to systemic issues, as locals have long endured illegal mining for their livelihoods, despite being aware of the associated risks.

Local Impact and Broader Context

Following the fatalities, a pall of gloom has descended upon Kulti, with families mourning and accusing mine officials and the CISF of remaining silent despite being aware of the intrusions. Many residents from nearby villages risk their lives daily for pieces of coal, evading security personnel in this area where theft from open mines is a survival tactic. This incident mirrors a similar collapse that occurred on November 15, 2025, in a stone mine in Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh, where 15 individuals were trapped, and seven bodies were recovered after an NDRF/SDRF investigation concluded the operation. Sonbhadra's SP Abhishek Verma noted that large boulders complicated the operation, revealing recurring deficiencies in mining safety.