At least seven labourers have lost their lives and one sustained injuries in a powerful explosion at an alleged illegal coal mine in the Thangsko area of Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district on Thursday morning, with police authorities fearing that more persons may still be trapped inside the mine even as the State Disaster Response Force is yet to arrive at the site.
The incident has triggered an emergency response from district police and disaster management authorities, once again underscoring the continuing dangers posed by illegal coal mining in the region.
Confirming the incident, Superintendent of Police, East Jaintia Hills, Vikash Kumar said, “Our team has confirmed that the incident took place this morning.” He added that one injured person was shifted from Sutnga PHC and referred to Shillong for advanced medical treatment. Police have sought assistance from the State Disaster Response Force to initiate rescue operations. “We sought help from SDRF team,” Kumar said.
The explosion is suspected to have occurred during mining activities at the site, which is believed to be operating illegally. When asked about the legality of the mine, the SP stated, “Yes, as per information.”
A police team has been dispatched to the spot to assess the situation, while authorities said detailed reports from the ground are awaited as investigations continue.
