Tragic Explosion in Meghalaya Sheds Light on Illegal Coal Mining

The tragic explosion at an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills has claimed at least 16 lives, with more individuals feared trapped. The incident, as confirmed by Police Director General I Nongrang, took place in the Thangsku area on Thursday morning, prompting immediate search and rescue operations.

East Jaintia Hills Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar reported that one injured person was initially taken to a local primary health centre before being transferred to a hospital in Shillong for better treatment. The explosion is suspected to have occurred during coal mining activities, believed to be part of an illegal operation in defiance of the National Green Tribunal's ban on unsafe mining practices.

The ban, upheld by the Supreme Court, specifically targets the dangerous practice of rat-hole mining, which has been linked to environmental degradation and significant safety risks. As rescue teams continue their efforts, the mining tragedy underscores the ongoing challenge of regulating illegal mining in Meghalaya.