Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed deep sorrow over the tragic dynamite explosion at an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district, which claimed the lives of at least 18 workers.
In a message posted on X, the Prime Minister said he was pained by the incident and offered condolences to the bereaved families. He also announced financial assistance from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund, stating that an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased, while those injured would receive ₹50,000.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma also conveyed his condolences, describing the incident as a deeply unfortunate tragedy. He assured that the state government has ordered a detailed investigation into the blast and emphasized that strict action would be taken against those found responsible. Stressing that there would be no compromise on safety, the chief minister said accountability would be fixed and legal action initiated.
The explosion occurred at an illegal coal mining site in the remote Tashkhai region of East Jaintia Hills, reportedly inside a mine located at Mynsyngat in the Thangsko area. Several labourers were working inside the mine when the blast took place, triggering a massive rescue operation.
Authorities suspect that most of the victims were migrant workers from Assam. One of the deceased has been identified as a resident of Bihara village in the Katigorah area of Assam. Meghalaya Police swiftly deployed multiple teams to the site to carry out search and rescue operations and assess the extent of the damage.
East Jaintia Hills Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar confirmed that 16 bodies have been recovered so far, adding that rescue efforts are continuing on a war footing. Officials fear that more workers may still be trapped under the debris inside the mine.
Search and recovery operations remain underway as police and emergency personnel continue efforts to retrieve the remaining victims from the site.
