Assam: Tragedy struck in Assam’s Dima Hasao district on Monday morning when a sudden flood inundated a coal mine, leaving 15 labourers feared trapped underground. The incident occurred at the Assam Coal Quarry in Umrangso’s 3 Kilo area, where workers accidentally damaged an underground water source during excavation, triggering rapid flooding inside the mine.
Multi-Agency Rescue Mission in Full Swing
In the wake of this disaster, a large-scale rescue operation has been launched, involving the Indian Army, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that the state has sought assistance from the Army, which has deployed specialist divers, engineers, and medical teams alongside personnel from the Assam Rifles.
Despite the combined efforts of these agencies, the operation faces severe obstacles. Narrow tunnels and rapidly rising water levels have made it exceedingly difficult to access the trapped labourers. The water level inside the mine has reportedly risen to nearly 100 feet, forcing authorities to bring in deep-sea divers from the Navy in Visakhapatnam to assist in the efforts.
Grim Reports Emerge
Initial reports from the site paint a grim picture of the situation inside the flooded coal mine. Rescue teams have confirmed that at least three of the trapped workers have tragically lost their lives, with the victims’ identities yet to be revealed. Meanwhile, six others remain unaccounted for, sparking fears among their families and the local community.
The conditions inside the mine are proving to be treacherous for both the trapped workers and the rescue teams. Rising water levels, poor visibility, and the lack of oxygen in the submerged areas have made the situation increasingly perilous. Despite these challenges, the rescue teams are working tirelessly, using advanced equipment and their expertise to reach the remaining individuals.
Authorities and local officials are trying to gather accurate information regarding the total number of workers who were inside the mine when the flood occurred. The lack of proper documentation and the chaotic nature of the incident have made it difficult to determine the exact figures, further complicating the rescue efforts.
A Stark Reminder of Past Tragedies
This tragic incident has drawn comparisons to the 2018 Meghalaya rat-hole mine disaster, where 15 miners lost their lives in a similar flooding event in the East Jaintia Hills. The recurring nature of such incidents has raised serious concerns about safety protocols and regulations in the mining sector.
Following the current disaster, the Assam government has launched a formal investigation into the cause of the flooding. Many activists and locals are demanding stricter regulations and more comprehensive inspections to ensure worker safety in mines across the region.
Challenges and Hopes
Rescuers face a daunting task as they navigate narrow mine shafts and deal with continuously rising water levels. Advanced equipment and skilled personnel have been deployed, but the challenging conditions inside the mine highlight the urgency and danger of the operation.
Meanwhile, the community and the nation at large have rallied around the families of the trapped labourers, offering prayers and support. Assam’s Chief Minister has assured the public that every effort is being made to save lives and provide assistance to affected families.
Looking Ahead
The tragic flooding of the Assam coal mine has once again highlighted the hazardous working conditions faced by labourers in the mining industry. It underscores the urgent need for improved safety measures and stricter enforcement of regulations to prevent such incidents in the future.
As rescue teams continue their courageous mission, the nation watches with bated breath, hoping for a positive outcome. This heartbreaking disaster serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by miners and the critical importance of prioritizing safety in hazardous industries.
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