Deadly Rat-Hole Mine Explosion Kills 18 in India, Rescue Operations Ongoing

A BBC report on February 7th details a deadly mine explosion in East Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya, northeastern India, which occurred around 11:00 AM local time on Thursday, February 5th. At least 18 mine workers were killed and one was severely burned. Police suggest the cause may be an internal mine explosion, with rescue teams still working to save numerous workers believed to be trapped under debris. The coal mine was operating illegally, using dangerous dynamite blasting in narrow tunnels where workers must crawl inside to extract coal. Despite strict prohibitions in many Indian states, illegal rat-hole mining continues. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced financial assistance of 200,000 rupees (approximately 69,600 baht) for the families of deceased workers and 50,000 rupees (about 17,400 baht) for the injured. Police have not yet identified the mine's owner or operators, nor have they confirmed the identities of all victims.