Tragedy struck Meghalaya as a powerful explosion devastated an illegal coal mine in Thangskhu, East Jaintia Hills, killing 16 workers in what could be the region’s worst mining mishap lately. Bodies were recovered from the debris, with fears of additional victims lingering.
SP Vikas Kumar verified the 16 deaths, noting relentless search efforts persist. ‘Operations continue despite the risks,’ he informed.
Triggered amid extraction, the blast buried miners alive. Unknown precise cause, yet unsafe methods in bootleg mines are suspected.
One injured survivor got prompt care at Sutnga, then Shillong, under watch.
NDRF, SDRF assist amid shaky land, slide dangers.
Illicit activity likely, under probe.
Exposes ongoing illegal mining perils despite interventions, urging action.