Meghalaya coal mine tragedy claims 18 lives in East Jaintia Hills. CM Conrad Sangma announces ₹3 lakh ex-gratia for victims’ families, while PM Modi offers additional PMNRF aid as rescue and investigation efforts continue.
A tragic coal mine accident in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district has claimed multiple lives, prompting swift relief measures from both the state and central governments. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Thursday announced an ex-gratia assistance of ₹3 lakh from the Meghalaya government to the next of kin of each deceased labourer, describing the decision as an immediate humanitarian response to the devastating incident.
The tragedy occurred at Thangsko, a coal-rich but remote area in East Jaintia Hills, when a powerful dynamite explosion caused the collapse of an illegal coal mine during active mining operations. According to official sources, the blast took place at around 11:30 am, trapping several labourers inside the mine. Rescue teams later recovered at least 18 bodies, while search operations continue amid challenging terrain and safety risks.
Chief Minister Sangma said the state government stands firmly with the bereaved families during this time of grief. He emphasized that the ex-gratia aid was intended to provide immediate financial relief, even as authorities focus on rescue, investigation, and accountability.
In addition to the state government’s assistance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced ex-gratia support from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). As per the announcement, ₹2 lakh will be provided to the families of each deceased worker, while those injured in the incident will receive ₹50,000. The combined relief package is expected to ease some of the immediate financial burden on affected families.
The Chief Minister confirmed that the mine involved was operating illegally, raising serious concerns about safety violations and enforcement failures. Speaking to reporters, Sangma said the state administration has taken the incident with utmost seriousness and has ordered a comprehensive inquiry to determine responsibility.
Two senior cabinet ministers, Wailadmiki Shylla and Lahkmen Rymbui, have been directed to visit the accident site to oversee rescue operations and coordinate with district officials. The site, located nearly three hours from the district headquarters at Khliehriat, poses logistical challenges due to its remoteness and unstable ground conditions.
Disaster response teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed alongside local authorities. Rescue efforts are being carried out cautiously due to the risk of further collapses inside the mine. Officials said operations are progressing under strict safety protocols to protect rescue personnel.
Chief Minister Sangma stated that he is personally monitoring the situation and remains in constant communication with district authorities. The Deputy Chief Minister, who oversees the Home (Police) department, is also closely coordinating with law enforcement and emergency teams to ensure efficient execution of rescue and relief measures.
“Search and rescue operations are underway, and investigations have already been initiated,” Sangma said, adding that accountability would be fixed once the inquiry concludes. He made it clear that there would be no leniency in cases involving public safety and loss of life.
The Meghalaya government has repeatedly expressed its intent to curb illegal coal mining in the region, a practice that has long drawn criticism for unsafe working conditions and environmental damage. The latest incident has once again highlighted the dangers faced by labourers working in unregulated mines.
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Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Sangma said all necessary legal and administrative steps would be taken based on the inquiry’s findings. “The protection of human lives is non-negotiable. Those responsible for negligence or illegal activities will face strict legal action,” he asserted.
As families mourn the loss of their loved ones, the state has reiterated its solidarity with all those affected, assuring that relief, justice, and preventive measures remain top priorities.
