Meghalaya Coal Mine Blast: 18 Dead, Dozens Trapped
Meghalaya Coal Mine Blast: 18 Dead, Dozens Trapped
Meghalaya's illegal coal mine blast claims 18 lives with several feared trapped as authorities order a full inquiry and promise accountability.
A catastrophic blast at an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya has left at least 18 people dead, with many more believed to be trapped underground. Rescue and recovery teams have swung into action in the East Jaintia Hills area, where police say the explosion occurred inside a mine run illegally. The scene remains dangerous, and squads are working to locate and extract survivors while confirming the exact number of workers who were inside at the time.
The government has vowed accountability. The chief minister of Meghalaya expressed condolences to the families and announced that an inquiry has been ordered. He said those responsible will face strict legal action, underscoring the seriousness of the incident and the need to crack down on illegal mining practices.
A suo-motu first information report has been registered at the district headquarters, with investigators invoking the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, along with the Explosive Substances Act. Authorities say they are pursuing information about the mine owner and the people operating the site, as part of the probe into what officials are calling an illegal act.
Officials cautioned that the situation on the ground is still evolving and that the risk to workers remains high. Families and communities awaiting updates are urged to stay cautious as authorities continue the search and the inquiry proceeds, with a focus on preventing such tragedies in the future.
