The number of fatalities from the explosion at an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district climbed to 25 on Friday, as rescue teams continued operations amid concerns that more workers could still be trapped underground.
Police officials confirmed that seven additional deaths were recorded during the day. Four bodies were recovered from the accident site, while two others—earlier taken away by family members—were later brought to a hospital for official procedures. An injured worker undergoing treatment also died, pushing the toll higher.
The incident took place at Mynsynhgat village, a remote location in the district, where a powerful explosion triggered by the use of dynamite set the illegal mine on fire. At least 18 bodies had been retrieved on Thursday morning. According to East Jaintia Hills Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar, 17 of the deceased have been identified so far.
In connection with the incident, police arrested two individuals on Friday for allegedly running the illegal mining operation and carrying out the dynamite blast. The accused, identified as Forme Chyrmang and Shamehi War, are residents of East Jaintia Hills district. A local court has sent them to three days of police custody.
Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with teams from the National Disaster Response Force and other agencies working at the site. Family members of missing workers remain gathered near the area, anxiously awaiting updates. At least five injured miners have been shifted to Silchar Medical College and Hospital in neighbouring Assam for advanced treatment.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said on Thursday that the mine caught fire following a dynamite explosion and assured that strict action would be taken against those responsible. Police stated that the victims include workers from Meghalaya, Assam and Nepal, though the identities of all those killed are still being verified.
Taking suo motu cognisance of the tragedy, the Meghalaya High Court directed authorities to arrest all those involved in the incident and asked the district administration and police to submit a detailed report on the steps taken so far.
