SHILLONG : Several labourers are feared to have lost their lives following an explosion at an illegal coal mine in the Thangsku area of East Jaintia Hills district on Thursday morning. The exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed by authorities.
Confirming the incident, Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar said that the explosion occurred during the morning hours, but officials are still verifying the details. “Our team has confirmed that the incident took place this morning; however, the exact number of deaths is not confirmed,” he said.
The police official also informed that one injured person has been referred to Shillong for advanced medical treatment from the Sutnga Primary Health Centre.
Authorities are seeking assistance from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) to carry out rescue operations at the site. “The SDRF team is yet to arrive,” Kumar added.
Preliminary information suggests that the explosion occurred during coal mining activities at the site, which is suspected to be operating illegally. When asked whether the mine was illegal, the Superintendent of Police responded, “Yes, it appears so.”
Further details are awaited as an official inquiry and investigation have been initiated to ascertain the cause of the explosion and fix responsibility.