A tragic explosion in an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya has claimed the lives of at least 18 laborers. The incident happened on Thursday morning in the Thangskai area of East Jaintia Hills district, which is about 30 kilometers away from the district headquarters. Rescue teams have recovered 18 bodies from the site so far, but there is a fear that more workers might be trapped inside.
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Rescue Operations and High Court Action
Police and rescue teams reached the spot immediately after getting the news. Superintendent of Police Vikas Kumar mentioned that the blast likely occurred during illegal mining work. One injured laborer has been sent to a hospital in Shillong for treatment. The Meghalaya High Court has taken this matter very seriously. The court has ordered the authorities to identify and arrest the mine owners immediately. It has also summoned the Deputy Commissioner and the Superintendent of Police to appear before the court on February 9.
Compensation Announced for Victims
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep grief over the incident. He announced a financial help of ₹2 lakh for the families of those who died and ₹50,000 for the injured. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma also announced that the state government will give ₹3 lakh to the families of each deceased laborer. The government has ordered a strict investigation into how this illegal mine was operating despite a ban.
