Meghalaya: Several feared dead in 'illegal' coal mine blast

Guwahati: Several labourers feared dead following an explosion at a suspected illegal coal mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district on Thursday, police said

The incident occurred inside a coal mine in the Thangsku area, where the workers were reportedly engaged in mining activities when the explosion took place. Police said the blast trapped several labourers deep inside the mine, leading to fatalities and injuries.

While initial police statements had not confirmed any deaths, subsequent information from hospitals and local authorities confirmed multiple fatalities. Rescue and recovery operations are continuing, and officials said further details would emerge after a complete assessment of the site.

Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar said preliminary inputs suggested that explosives, possibly dynamite, were used during mining. Asked whether the mine was operating illegally, he said it appeared to be so. An inquiry has been initiated to determine the exact cause of the explosion.

The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has been requisitioned to assist in rescue operations. Security arrangements have been tightened in the area as part of the response.

The identities of several deceased workers have been established. Three of them have been identified as Faruk Ahmed of Bihara village under Katigora, and Dildar Hussain and Anwora Hussain, both residents of Sharisha Kuri village in Assam. Police said all the victims were employed as labourers at the mine.

Coal mining in Meghalaya has remained under restrictions since 2014, when the National Green Tribunal banned rat-hole mining and other unscientific practices, citing environmental damage and safety risks. The Supreme Court later upheld the ban, allowing mining only under regulated and scientific procedures.

Authorities said investigations into the incident are ongoing.