Meghalaya Coal Mine Blast Death Toll Climbs to 31 as Another Worker Succumbs
The death toll from the devastating coal mine explosion in Meghalaya on February 5 has tragically risen to 31, following the death of another injured worker on Wednesday, according to official statements. This latest casualty brings the number of victims from Assam’s Barak Valley to nine, highlighting the widespread impact of the incident.
Victim Identified as Jamil Ahmed Chaudhury
The deceased has been identified as Jamil Ahmed Chaudhury, a resident of Dinanathpur at Katlicherra in Hailakandi district of Assam. Chaudhury sustained critical injuries while working at the coal mine located in Thangskai, within the East Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya, during the blast earlier this month.
Initially receiving treatment locally in Meghalaya, Chaudhury was later transferred to Guwahati Medical College and Hospital as his condition deteriorated, sources revealed. Despite extensive medical efforts, he ultimately passed away at the hospital, leaving his family and community in mourning.
Community Mourns and Demands Safety Reforms
Family members shared that Chaudhury had been working in the mine to support his household, and his death has cast a profound pall of gloom over Dinanathpur and surrounding areas. Relatives and neighbors are grieving the loss, with local residents expressing deep concern over the recurring nature of coal mine accidents.
In response, there have been urgent calls for stricter safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future. The community is demanding accountability and enhanced regulations to protect workers in the mining industry.
Ongoing Investigations and Official Responses
The February 5 explosion left numerous workers critically injured, with many referred to hospitals in Assam for specialized treatment. Officials have yet to release a detailed report on the cause of the blast, though preliminary findings indicate a possible accumulation of explosive gases inside the mine.
Authorities in both Meghalaya and Assam continue to monitor the condition of other injured workers, ensuring they receive necessary medical attention. In a significant development, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced that the state government has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the incident.
He emphasized that accountability will be enforced, and those responsible will face strict legal action. Additionally, sources confirmed that search and rescue operations at the illegal coal mine site in Thangskai were called off on Tuesday, marking a shift in focus towards investigation and recovery efforts.
Broader Implications and Future Steps
This incident underscores the persistent dangers associated with coal mining, particularly in regions where safety protocols may be lax. The rising death toll and community outcry highlight the need for systemic changes to improve worker safety and regulatory oversight.
As investigations proceed, stakeholders are urged to implement robust measures to mitigate risks and prevent similar accidents. The tragic loss of lives, including that of Jamil Ahmed Chaudhury, serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of industrial hazards.
