At least 16 laborers lost their lives in a tragic mining accident in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district due to a massive explosion at a suspected illegal coal mine. The bodies of the deceased have been recovered by rescue teams amidst ongoing search and rescue operations led by local authorities.
The explosion, believed to have occurred during coal mining activities, resulted in a collapse that trapped multiple workers underground. While one laborer survived with injuries and was transferred for advanced medical care in Shillong, the exact cause of the blast remains under investigation.
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been mobilized to support the local police and district administration in the challenging rescue efforts. Preliminary assessments suggest that the mine may have been operating illegally, highlighting the persistent issue of unauthorized and hazardous mining practices in the region.
Authorities are conducting a detailed inquiry to determine the circumstances leading to the tragic incident and to hold those responsible accountable. Despite court orders and enforcement measures, illegal coal mining activities persist in East Jaintia Hills, posing risks to workers and the environment.
