The death toll in the dynamite explosion at an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district climbed to 25 on Friday after six more bodies were recovered from the debris and one injured miner succumbed during treatment, intensifying scrutiny on rampant illegal mining practices in the region.
The tragedy at the Mynsyngat–Thangsko area has triggered an extensive multi-agency rescue and investigation operation, even as authorities moved swiftly to initiate criminal proceedings against those allegedly responsible. Police officials said that of the total fatalities, 18 bodies have so far been identified.
Confirming the developments, East Jaintia Hills District Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar said two persons Forme Chyrmang (36yrs) S/o (L) Kom Dkhar R/o Jalaphet Pordung and Shamehi war 42yrs S/o shri wiseman syrti R/o sutnga Pohwailong have been arrested in connection with the explosion and produced before a court, which granted them three days of police custody. The incident has also left seven others injured, while search and rescue operations continued under extremely challenging terrain and hazardous conditions at the mine site, with agencies racing against time to retrieve bodies, rule out the presence of survivors and secure the affected area.
The rescue effort witnessed a massive mobilisation of forces, including two teams of the State Disaster Response Force, one Special Rescue Team and three teams of the National Disaster Response Force, all working in close coordination. Medical arrangements were significantly augmented, with an additional medical team rushed from Jowai and Shillong, and seven ambulances deployed from Jowai. The Border Security Force was also deployed at the site with one Deputy Commandant, 15 personnel, two ambulances equipped with nursing staff and two doctors, while the Army and the Air Force remained on standby to provide support if required.
The seriousness of the blast drew visits from Cabinet Ministers Lahkmen Rymbui and Wailadmiki Shylla, who assessed the ground situation and reviewed the response measures. Justice (retd) B.P. Katakey, who heads the committee appointed by the Meghalaya High Court to investigate illegal coal mining in the state, also visited East Jaintia Hills, underlining heightened judicial and administrative scrutiny over illegal mining activities in the district.
Stressing that the law has been set in motion, the Superintendent of Police said legal action has been initiated in the case. Detailing the charges, he stated, “In connection with the incident Suo-motu FIR has been registered vide Khliehriat PS case no 14/2026 U/s 105/118(2)/3(5) BNS R/W section 21/21(1) MMDR Act R/W section 3 Explosives Substances Act and investigation in on.”
