At least 16 people were killed in a devastating blast at a suspected illegal rat-hole coal mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district on Thursday. Rescue teams are continuing their search, fearing more workers may still be trapped inside the mine.
Police confirmed the recovery of 16 bodies so far, while the total number of miners present during the incident is still uncertain. Director General of Police I Nongrang stated that the search operation is ongoing to locate anyone who might be trapped.
The explosion reportedly occurred in the Thangsku area during morning mining operations. East Jaintia Hills Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar noted that one injured person was first admitted to Sutnga Primary Health Centre and later shifted to a Shillong hospital for advanced treatment. Authorities suspect the mine was operating illegally, though the precise cause of the blast is under investigation. A detailed inquiry has been ordered.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the tragic accident. “Pained by the mishap in East Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest,” he tweeted. He further announced financial support from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF), promising Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to those injured.
