SHILLONG, DEC 13: In a clear cut violation against the ban on coal mining by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), digging of fresh coal has led to the death of around 13 labourers after a coal mine collapsed in East Jaintia Hills District on Thursday.
Confirming this, district police chief Silvester Nongtyngnger said as per information received, reportedly around 13 persons including 3 locals of Lumthari village were trapped inside the coal mine at Ksan near Lyteiñ River under Saipung police station.
He said it appeared to be an old coal mine and recently about 3-4 days work was resumed.
The SP further informed that due to the over flowing of water, the dead bodies are still trapped inside and there is no sign of dead bodies that could be seen.
“The water is being pumped up with the help of a generator and is in progress,” he said.
Meanwhile, police have also registered a case against the mine owner, who is yet to be identified till filing of this report.
Sources also informed that most of the coal labourers are from a district in Garo Hills region.
It may be mentioned here the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a blanket ban on unscientific coal mining in the state of Meghalaya for the past four years.
By Our Reporter
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