Tragic Explosion in Meghalaya's Illegal Coal Mine Claims 16 Lives

Explosion in Meghalaya's Eastern Jaintia Hills

A devastating explosion occurred on Thursday in a suspected illegal coal mine located in the Eastern Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya, resulting in the deaths of sixteen individuals. According to police reports, the incident took place in a village within the district, where at least 16 workers from Assam lost their lives, and several others were trapped inside the mine. Police Superintendent Vikas Kumar confirmed that the explosion happened in the Thangskhu area.

Kumar stated that the bodies of 16 victims have been recovered, while many others sustained injuries and have been admitted to a primary health center, with plans to refer them to Shillong for further treatment. The police have enlisted the help of the State Disaster Response Force to conduct rescue operations at the site, which are still ongoing. It is believed that the explosion occurred during activities at an illegally operated coal mining site. When asked about the legality of the mine, Kumar responded, "Yes, it appears to be illegal." He also mentioned that the cause of the explosion is currently unknown and will be investigated.

In 2014, the National Green Tribunal imposed a ban on rat-hole coal mining and other unscientific mining practices in Meghalaya, citing environmental damage and serious safety concerns. The illegal transportation of coal extracted through these methods was also prohibited. Rat-hole mining involves digging narrow tunnels, typically around 3 to 4 feet high, for workers to extract coal. The Supreme Court later upheld this ban, allowing coal mining only through scientific and regulated processes that ensure proper environmental safety measures.