Rescue Operations Ongoing Amid Rising Water Levels in Dima Hasao District
New Delhi: In a heartbreaking turn of events, divers have successfully recovered the body of one worker from an inundated coal mine in Assam’s Dima Hasao district. This tragic incident occurred two days after a sudden influx of water trapped nine workers at the site. The rescue operations continue as authorities fear that many others may still be trapped in the flooded depths of the mine.
The brave efforts of the 21 Para Divers led to the recovery of the body from the bottom of a deep well in the Umrangso area, specifically at a site known as 3 Kilo. Navy, army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel are collaborating in the ongoing rescue efforts, working tirelessly to ensure the safety of those still unaccounted for.
On January 5, 2025, the tragic incident took place, with water levels inside the quarry rising alarmingly to nearly 100 feet as a result of seasonal rains. Authorities have been mobilizing resources rapidly, with de-watering pumps dispatched from Umrangshu to help address the flood situation. Additionally, an ONGC de-watering pump has been readied for deployment, pending weather clearance, to aid in relieving the trapped site.
Local Government Mobilizes Resources and Urges Accountability
In light of this terrible incident, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has been actively coordinating with federal resources. He has reached out to Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy, who confirmed that a specialized team from Coal India would join the rescue operations starting Wednesday. The urgency of the situation has led to a collaborative effort between various governmental agencies to ensure all possible measures are in place for recovery.
The identities of the laborers trapped in the 340-feet-deep quarry have been revealed, with names including Ganga Bahadur Shreth, Hussain Ali, Jakir Hussain, Sarpa Barman, Mustafa Seikh, Khushi Mohan Rai, Sanjit Sarkar, Lijan Magar, and Sarat Goyary. As search operations continue, families and local communities are anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones.
Moreover, Chief Minister Sarma has indicated that preliminary investigations suggest that the mine may be operating unlawfully. In response, local police have arrested a suspect in relation to the incident, identified as Punish Nunisa. A formal investigation is now underway, with an FIR registered under the Umrangso PS Case No: 02/2025, citing various sections of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.
The chief minister’s statement comes as a reminder of the grave risks associated with illegal mining activities, raising concerns about regulatory oversight and worker safety in mining operations throughout the region. As stated on social media, “One Punish Nunisa has been arrested in connection with the case,” reflecting the urgency of accountability in such incidents.
Broader Implications for Coal Mining Industry in Assam
The tragic event has raised significant alarm regarding the safety measures in place for coal mining operations in Assam. With allegations suggesting that the mine may be illegal, there are calls for stricter enforcement of regulations to protect workers and prevent similar incidents in the future. there is a pressing need for immediate reforms in the coal mining sector to safeguard laborers who often work in precarious and hazardous environments.
The incident has drawn the attention of various human rights and labor organizations, which are emphasizing the need for enhanced safety protocols and regular inspections of mining sites. In a statement made by a representative of a local labor union, it was highlighted that “the safety of workers must be prioritized, and unjust working conditions should not be tolerated.”
Additionally, members of the broader community have gathered to support the families of the trapped workers, offering prayers and assistance. Local activists are also urging officials for transparency and accountability in the ongoing investigation to ensure that justice is served for those affected by this unfortunate tragedy.
Continued Search Efforts and Community Support
As the rescue operations continue, the challenges faced by the divers and rescue personnel cannot be understated. With water levels still rising, the urgency of their mission has heightened as they navigate the flooded mine in search of additional survivors. Divers deployed from Visakhapatnam have been conducting reconnaissance of the area before entering the hazardous conditions of the quarry.
The community remains hopeful despite the grim circumstances, rallying together to assist in rescue efforts, providing food and shelter for the families of the trapped workers. Social media platforms have become a hub for sharing updates, with local leaders and influencers calling for support and awareness regarding the incident.
With the government mobilizing resources and the community uniting in solidarity, there is a sense of collective determination that no effort will be spared to find the missing workers. Local authorities remain steadfast in their commitment to a thorough investigation, hoping to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
For further information on the implications of illegal mining in Assam and the ongoing investigations, visit related articles on Hams Live News or refer to sources like the The Hindu for broader discussions on the coal mining sector.
As the search continues, the strength and resilience of the community are on full display, fostering hope among those impacted by this horrific incident.