SHILLONG/KHLIEHRIAT: The death toll in the Thangsko Coal Mine Tragedy has gone up to 32 after two more injured persons succumbed to their injuries, on Wednesday.
The deceased were identified as Jamil Ahmed Choudhury, who was undergoing treatment at Agile Hospital in Guwahati, and Deb Malakar, who was admitted at NEIGRIHMS Hospital in Shillong.
The search and rescue operations following the illegal coal mine explosion at Mynsngat in the Thangsko area of East Jaintia Hills were officially called off at 5 pm on February 9, 2026, after days of intensive efforts by the NDRF, SDRF, Special Rescue Team, police, and district administration.
Following the incident, the district administration intensified its crackdown on illegal mining activities by deploying five joint enforcement teams comprising executive magistrates, police personnel, and officials from the Directorate of Mineral Resources.
During operations conducted on February 10, authorities seized large quantities of illegally mined coal from multiple locations, including Sohkymphor Road, Byrwai Road, Iurimkhliehshnong, and the stretch between Byrwai and Ladmynska villages.
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On February 11, an additional 432.15 metric tonnes of coal were seized from Iapmala village, and several FIRs were registered in connection with illegal mining activities.
Officials said further legal action is underway to identify and prosecute those involved in unlawful extraction and transportation of coal.
To maintain public safety and support ongoing enforcement operations, the District Magistrate has imposed a prohibitory order under Section 163 of the BNSS.
Authorities stated that the order aims to prevent unlawful gatherings and restrict movement in sensitive and hazardous areas.
The district administration has appealed to residents to cooperate with enforcement agencies, refrain from engaging in illegal mining, and avoid entering dangerous or restricted mining zones.
Officials reiterated that strict monitoring and sustained action will continue in East Jaintia Hills to curb illegal mining and prevent future tragedies.
