Shillong, Feb 5: A coal mine blast in East Jaintia Hills around 11:00 AM has resulted in the deaths of 18 workers, while one person was injured, officials confirmed. The explosion occurred inside a coal mine in the Mynsyngat, Thangsku area during active mining operations. Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local authorities reached the site immediately after the incident. Emergency personnel recovered several bodies from the mine, and operations are ongoing to ensure no one else remains trapped underground.
Update (Feb 6): Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences over the tragedy and announced ex-gratia assistance of ₹2 lakh for the families of each deceased worker and ₹50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also assured full central support to the Meghalaya government for ongoing rescue and relief operations.
Authorities said rescue and verification operations are continuing at the mine site, while assistance and support measures are being coordinated for families affected by the incident. Officials are continuing investigations into the cause of the explosion.
Authorities stated that the mine involved was operating without proper authorization. A suo motu FIR has been registered at Khliehriat Police Station under various sections of Indian law, including provisions related to illegal mining and explosives. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the explosion and confirm the total number of workers present inside the mine at the time.
The injured worker was taken to a hospital in Shillong for treatment and is reported to be in stable condition. Officials are coordinating with local communities to provide support to the families of the victims.
Conrad Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and assured that a comprehensive inquiry into the incident has been ordered.
The Meghalaya government has emphasized the need for a thorough inquiry and strict compliance with safety measures. NDRF and SDRF teams remain at the site, monitoring conditions, and assisting with recovery efforts. Authorities are working carefully due to the challenging underground environment in the mine.
The incident has also triggered widespread reactions on social media, with many users expressing shock and grief over the loss of lives while calling for stricter action against illegal mining activities in the region. Several posts urged authorities to ensure stronger safety enforcement to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
This incident highlights ongoing risks associated with unauthorized mining practices in the region. Local authorities continue to stress the importance of following safety regulations. The exact timeline of the blast and the final number of people affected are still under verification, and officials have asked the public to remain patient while recovery operations continue.
The state administration is also providing support and relief to the families affected and ensuring that medical and logistical assistance is available at the site and nearby hospitals.
