SHILLONG: In a challenging and high-risk operation, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) successfully retrieved the body of a 41-year-old man from an abandoned coal mine in Khliehriat, East Jaintia Hills district, after six days of continuous effort.
According to an official press release issued by the Directorate of Civil Defence and Home Guards, the incident occurred on May 26, when the victim accidentally fell into the mine, approximately 120 feet deep, while attempting to fetch drinking water near the old DC Office area in Khliehriat.
Following the report received on May 27, personnel from the 1st Battalion of SDRF, based in Shillong, were immediately mobilized by the district administration. However, rescue operations could not begin on the same day due to fading daylight and unsafe conditions at the site.
The operation faced severe challenges, particularly due to nearly 40 feet of water inside the mine, which made access extremely difficult. SDRF personnel, with the assistance of local residents and the victim’s family, undertook continuous pumping operations to reduce the water level and facilitate the search.
After days of coordinated efforts, the operation reached a crucial stage on June 1. At around 6:30 PM, a team comprising four SDRF personnel and two local volunteers descended into the mine to conduct a detailed search. At approximately 9:00 PM, the team successfully located and retrieved the body.
The body was subsequently handed over to the police authorities for further legal procedures.
Officials stated that the operation demonstrated exceptional courage, professionalism, and coordination under hazardous conditions. The SDRF also expressed condolences to the bereaved family and acknowledged the vital support extended by local residents throughout the operation.
