Explosion Rocks Illegal Coal Mine in Meghalaya: Rescue Efforts Underway

A suspected illegal coal mine explosion in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district has left one person injured and several feared trapped, according to local authorities. Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar confirmed the incident in the Thangsku area on Thursday morning. Despite initial medical attention, the injured individual was referred to Shillong for advanced care.

The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has been requested to assist with rescue operations at the site, but their team had yet to arrive at the time of reporting. Although the exact cause remains unknown, preliminary reports suggest that it occurred during coal mining activities, suspected to be illegal operations.

Illegal rat-hole mining practices in Meghalaya were banned by the National Green Tribunal in 2014 due to environmental harm and safety concerns, a decision later upheld by the Supreme Court. The explosion underscores persistent challenges in enforcing regulations and preventing unauthorized mining activities in the region.