A tragic incident at the Parasia colliery of Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) in the Kunustoria area of Jamuria, West Burdwan, claimed one life and left 23 workers injured on Thursday. The mishap occurred between 9.45 am and 10 am, shortly after workers had entered the mine for their shift.
Details of the Accident
According to workers, approximately 40 ECL employees were engaged in coal-cutting operations nearly 580 feet underground. The roof fall happened about 150-200 feet from their location. A loud sound was heard from inside the mine moments before a roof-fall warning siren was issued, prompting workers to evacuate. Soon after, a strong air blast swept through the underground section, flinging several workers aside and causing injuries. Others escaped with minor injuries by lying or sitting on the ground for protection.
Victim and Rescue Operations
The deceased was identified as 56-year-old Debai Munda, a clip man employed with ECL and a resident of Munda Para. He died on the spot. ECL's rescue and medical teams rushed to the colliery and launched rescue operations. The injured workers were taken to ECL Hospital and Mission Hospital in Durgapur for treatment.
The accident sparked panic outside the mine as relatives of the injured and deceased gathered at the site. Discussions were underway between authorities and workers' representatives regarding compensation for the victim's family and employment for one of his relatives.
Demand for Investigation
Kalimuddin Ansari, area secretary of CMSI CITU, demanded a full investigation into the incident. He stated, 'We have demanded a thorough probe into the accident. Any negligence regarding workers' safety will not be tolerated. An agreement has also been reached to provide a job to the deceased worker's son.'
Parasia Colliery personal manager Sanjay Sorang declined to comment on the investigation, saying, 'I will not be able to comment on the investigation into the accident. Senior authorities will speak on the matter.'
Possible Cause
A senior official of ECL explained that air blasts generally occur when mined-out areas are not properly filled with sand after coal extraction. 'Improper sand stowing often leads to instability inside the mine, which can trigger an air blast. However, the exact reason behind this incident will only be known after a detailed investigation,' the official stated.
