Trapped in Darkness: Rescue Operations Underway for Laborers in Umrangso Coal Mine
In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves through Assam, several laborers are feared trapped in a coal mine in Umrangso after water rushed into the shaft on Monday evening. Immediate rescue operations are underway, with local authorities, emergency responders, and mining experts collaborating to locate and free the trapped workers.
Government Response and Rescue Efforts
Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has expressed deep concern over the situation, confirming that assistance has been sought from the Indian Army as well as the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). In a post on X, he shared, “Distressing news from Umrangshu, where laborers are trapped in a coal mine. The exact number and status are yet unknown…”
Current Situation at the Mine
Preliminary reports suggest that around 15 workers were inside the mine during the incident, although an AFP report indicates that at least 27 workers had entered the mine earlier that day. Dima Hasao Superintendent of Police, Mayank Jha, reported that many workers managed to escape as gushing waters flooded the pit workings. However, several others remain unaccounted for.
The mine, located in the remote Umrangshu region of Dima Hasao district, is situated approximately 130 km from Shillong, close to the Assam-Meghalaya border. Rescuers have reported that water has inundated the illegal ‘rat hole’ mine, reaching depths of up to 100 feet. They are currently deploying two motor pumps to remove the water and facilitate rescue operations.
Community and Safety Concerns
As rescue teams rush to the scene, the incident raises significant concerns about the safety standards in coal mining operations in the region. The use of illegal mining practices, such as ‘rat hole’ mining, poses severe risks to workers and highlights the urgent need for regulatory oversight.
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Stay tuned for further updates as the rescue operations continue.
