Shillong, Feb 9: Police are verifying the media reports about the death of two more injured coal miners at the Silchar Medical College hospital.
East Jaintia Hills police chief Vikash Kumar said while Raju Tamang succumbed to his injuries on Monday at NEIGRIHMS, the death of two others at the Silchar Medical College hospital is yet to be confirmed.
They have been identified as Ramcharan Baishnab of Katigorah and
Niman Uddin of Borkhola.
In a separate statement, the government said that. that search and rescue operations are continuing following the mine explosion at Mynsngat, Thangsko area, with teams from the NDRF, SDRF, Special Rescue Team(SRT), Police and District Administration engaged in the operation.
No bodies were recovered on February 9 The search and rescue operation was called off at 5 pm.
The District Administration has intensified enforcement drives against illegal mining, deputing teams comprising of Executive Magistrates, Police and officials from the Directorate of Mineral Resources(DMR). During the drives, 6 MT (Approx) of coal were seized in between Lumshyrmit and Cham Cham area, 10 MT (Approx) from roadside near Cham Cham and Mukhaialong, 2 MT (Approx) from the roadside stretch between Mutong and Mukhaialong Village and 20 MT (Approx.) from Pynthorsale Village.
In addition, makeshift camps, used in connection with illegal mining activities were identified and destroyed during the enforcement operations. FIRs have been registered in connection with reported illegal mining activities, and further legal action is underway.
Notably, till date, a compensation amount of Rs 24,00,000 (Rupees twenty four lakh) has also been paid to 8 victims of mine explosion at Mynsngat, Thangsko and payment will continue to be done as and when submissions of documentary evidence are secured from the next of kin of the remaining families of the deceased.
A prohibitory order under Section 163 BNSS has been issued by the District Magistrate, East Jaintia Hills District, to ensure public safety and facilitate ongoing operations.
The public was urged to cooperate with authorities, refrain from illegal mining, and avoid visiting hazardous or restricted mining areas.
Photo: The blast site at Mynsngat-Thangsko (MM)
