In a tragic incident that has shaken the coal-rich East Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya, at least 18 workers have lost their lives after an illegal coal mine collapsed due to a powerful dynamite blast. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma confirmed the grim death toll on Thursday, as search and rescue operations continue amid challenging conditions.
The disaster struck around 11:30 AM when the dynamite explosion during mining activities caused the unauthorized mine in Thangskho to cave in, trapping numerous laborers inside. Speaking to reporters in Shillong, Sangma detailed the rapid response from state authorities, including dispatching two ministers to the site for on-ground assessment and coordination of relief efforts.
Located in a remote area roughly three hours from the district headquarters at Khliehriat, the site poses significant logistical hurdles. Unstable terrain and safety risks are complicating the rescue mission, which involves teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local officials.
‘I am personally monitoring the situation and staying in constant touch with district authorities,’ Sangma assured, emphasizing the deployment of the Home (Police) Department’s Deputy Chief Minister to ensure seamless operations. A thorough investigation has been ordered to probe the causes and hold the guilty accountable.
The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance stance on public safety lapses, vowing strict legal action against those responsible. As families await news of missing workers, the state remains committed to exhaustive rescue efforts and preventing future tragedies in the hazardous mining sector.