KHLIEHRIAT/SHILLONG: At least four labourers were killed and one critically injured following a powerful explosion at a suspected illegal coal mine in the Thangsko area of East Jaintia Hills district on Thursday morning.
The blast, reportedly caused by a high-intensity dynamite explosion used for mining, triggered the collapse of adjoining mine shafts, trapping workers deep underground and sparking fears of further casualties.
According to local sources, the impact of the explosion was so severe that nearby quarry structures crumbled instantly, complicating rescue efforts.
Superintendent of Police of East Jaintia Hills Vikash Kumar confirmed the incident and said that police and disaster management teams were immediately mobilised.
“Our team has confirmed that the incident occurred this morning. We have sought urgent assistance from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) to carry out rescue operations,” SP Kumar said.
One survivor, who sustained critical injuries, was initially taken to the Sutnga Primary Health Centre before being referred to Shillong for advanced medical treatment. His condition remains critical.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the mine was operating illegally, in violation of safety regulations and existing government bans on rat-hole mining in the region.
The tragedy has once again highlighted the dangers associated with illegal coal mining in East Jaintia Hills, which has claimed several lives in the past.
Meanwhile, SDRF teams are racing against time to reach the remote site from Jowai and conduct search and rescue operations amid unstable ground conditions. Authorities have stated that further details will be shared as the operation progresses.
