Meghalaya coal mine explosion LIVE: At least 18 people dead; several feared trapped - The Hindu
A coal mine explosion in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district has raised serious concerns about worker safety and illegal mining practices in the region. The blast occurred inside a coal mine, reportedly after methane gas ignited, trapping several miners underground. Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, and local authorities were rushed to the site to begin rescue operations. Officials said the terrain and water-filled mine shafts have made rescue efforts difficult and time-consuming. Oxygen levels inside the mine are being monitored, while heavy pumping equipment is being used to remove water. The incident has once again drawn attention to rat-hole mining, a banned but still prevalent practice in Meghalaya. The state government has ordered a detailed investigation to determine the cause of the explosion and identify those responsible. Families of the trapped miners are anxiously awaiting updates as rescue efforts continue.
The Key points
- Explosion occurred in a coal mine in East Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya.
- Methane gas ignition is suspected as the cause.
- Several miners are trapped underground after the blast.
- NDRF and SDRF teams are leading rescue operations.
- Water-logged mine shafts are slowing rescue work.
- Oxygen levels inside the mine are under constant monitoring.
- Heavy pumps deployed to drain water from the mine.
- Incident highlights continued illegal rat-hole mining.
- State government has ordered an official investigation.
- Families of miners await news as rescue efforts continue.
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