Ten workers killed in Meghalaya coal mine blast, several others feared trapped as rescue operations continue

A powerful explosion at a suspected illegal coal mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills has killed at least ten labourers and left others trapped, prompting ongoing rescue efforts amid safety and mining legality concerns

Shillong| 05 February 2026: At least ten workers have been killed after a massive explosion rocked a coal mine in the East Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya, officials and local reports said on Thursday. The blast, which occurred in the Thangsku area during the morning hours, also left several other labourers feared trapped deep inside the mine, prompting an urgent rescue operation by authorities.

Local police and rescue teams, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), immediately rushed to the site following the explosion. One injured worker was pulled out and initially taken to a nearby health centre before being referred to Shillong for specialised treatment, police sources added.Preliminary reports suggest that the mine where the blast occurred may have been operating illegally. Authorities are yet to confirm the exact number of workers inside the pit at the time of the explosion, and the cause of the blast remains under investigation. Initial assessments point to potential gas leakage or unsafe extraction conditions.

The tragedy has once again drawn attention to the dangers of unregulated or illegal mining practices in the region. Despite a long‑standing ban on so‑called “rat‑hole” and other unsafe forms of coal mining imposed by the National Green Tribunal, irregular operations continue to surface, raising ongoing safety and environmental concerns.

Rescue teams continue their search through narrow underground passages, hoping to reach any survivors. Local administration officials have tightened security around the area to ensure safety and facilitate uninterrupted rescue efforts. Authorities cautioned that the casualty figure could change as search operations proceed and more information becomes available.Families of missing workers are being informed, and medical teams remain on standby to assist. The state government has pledged a thorough inquiry into the circumstances of the blast and promised strict action against any violations found during the investigation

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