A terrible accident has occurred in an illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya. At least 18 workers have lost their lives in a massive explosion that occurred on Thursday morning. The incident took place in Thangskai area, about 30 kilometers from the district headquarters. Police and rescue teams have recovered 18 bodies, but there are fears that some people may still be trapped inside as the exact number of people working in the mine is not known.
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What is the action of police and rescue team?
Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar has informed that this accident seems to have happened during illegal mining activities. The police have started a full investigation into the matter and the mine owners are being identified and searched. As soon as information about the incident was received, NDRF and SDRF teams reached the spot and started relief work. So far 18 bodies have been recovered and one injured laborer has been referred to Shillong hospital. Police have registered a case under BNS and Explosives Act at Khliehriat police station.
What compensation has the government given?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep grief over this tragic incident. The Prime Minister has announced Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to the injured. At the same time, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has also ordered the state government to give Rs 3 lakh to the families of the deceased. The Meghalaya High Court has itself taken cognizance of the matter and summoned the officials with the report by February 9. The court has also given strict orders for the arrest of the mine owners.
