Breaking News: Explosion at Illegal Mine in Northeast India
An explosion occurred at an unregulated coal mine in the East Jainta Hills area of northeastern India, resulting in the deaths of at least 18 people. Local authorities confirmed the recovery of 18 bodies from the blast site.
The incident took place in a remote location on Thursday. Eight additional individuals sustained injuries, according to local official Manish Kumar. The exact number of workers present during the explosion is unknown, and there are concerns that others may still be trapped.
Rescue operations were paused at sunset on Thursday and are set to resume on Friday with assistance from state and federal teams. The mine is described as an “illegal rat-hole mine,” a type of deep, narrow shaft that poses significant risks to workers.
District police chief Vikash Kumar suggested that dynamite may have caused the explosion, but investigations are ongoing. Kumar stated that workers likely suffered from burn injuries or toxic fume exposure.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences to the victims’ families and announced a compensation of 200,000 rupees (approximately $2,216) for each family affected. Illegal mining remains a significant issue in the region.
