Shillong (Meghalaya) [India], February 5 (ANI): The death toll in the coal mine blast incident in the Thangskai area of Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district has risen to 18, police officials said on Wednesday.
Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar said information was received in the morning about an explosion at an illegal coal mine in Mynsyngat, Thangsko (Thangskai), under the Umpleng police outpost area, following which police personnel rushed to the site.
In a press release, SP Kumar confirmed that an explosion had occurred inside an illegal coal mine and several persons were suspected to be trapped. During the rescue operation, 18 bodies were recovered from the site.
“During the course of the rescue operation, a total of 18 dead bodies have been recovered from the site of the explosion. One injured person was rescued and initially shifted to Sutnga Community Health Centre and subsequently referred to a higher medical center for further treatment,” the release stated.
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force, and Special Rescue Team are actively engaged at the site, and rescue and recovery operations are continuing.
In connection with the incident, a first information report has been registered at Khliehriat police station under sections 105, 118(2), and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita; sections 21 and 21(1) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957; and section 3 of the Explosives Substances Act.
SP Kumar said anyone with information about other individuals involved in the illegal activity is requested to inform the nearest police station. He added that the identity of informants will be kept confidential and a suitable reward will be given. Further investigation is underway.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced ex gratia assistance of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of the 18 victims who lost their lives in the tragic incident. Those injured in the blast will receive Rs 50,000 each. One person sustained burn injuries in the incident.
The ex gratia assistance will be provided from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. In a post on X, the Prime Minister said he was pained by the mishap in East Jaintia Hills and expressed condolences to the bereaved families, while wishing a speedy recovery for the injured.
Meanwhile, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said the state government has ordered an inquiry into the coal mine incident. He said accountability will be fixed and those responsible will face strict legal action.
“Profoundly saddened by the tragic coal mine incident in East Jaintia Hills. My deepest sympathies are with the families who have lost their loved ones in this unfortunate tragedy. The Government of Meghalaya has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the incident. Accountability will be fixed, and those responsible will face strict legal action. There will be no compromise when it comes to the safety of lives,” Sangma posted on X.
He added that the state stands in solidarity with all those affected during this moment of sorrow.
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