It is suspected that some workers are still trapped inside the mine, and rescue operations are ongoing.
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At least 18 workers have died in an explosion at an illegally operating coal mine in the East Jaintia Hills district of the Indian state of Meghalaya, including Nepalis.
It is suspected that some more workers are trapped inside the mine, and rescue operations are underway. According to the local administration, the mine, which is being operated using a dangerous technique called 'rat-hole', suddenly exploded on Wednesday morning. Dozens of workers were working inside the mine at the time of the explosion. The mine was filled with smoke, toxic gas and water after the explosion, making rescue operations difficult.
Upon receiving information about the incident, teams from the police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed to the site. So far, 18 bodies have been recovered, while some workers are still missing, according to the police. One worker has been rescued in serious condition and admitted to the hospital.
Even though the Supreme Court has banned the 'rat-hole' mining system in Meghalaya, illegal mining in remote areas has not stopped. Several workers have died in such mining accidents before.
After the incident, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased. The Central and Meghalaya governments have announced compensation for the families of the deceased.
The state government has ordered an investigation into the incident. It has been warned that strict action will be taken against those involved in illegal mining operations. The administration has said that security has been increased at the scene until the rescue operation is completed.
