Eighteen people were confirmed dead in one of the worst illegal coal mining accidents in Meghalaya, at Thangsko in East Jaintia Hills district.
The incident occurred inside an illegal “box-cutting” coal mine, where miners descend deep vertical shafts and dig horizontally using rudimentary tools. Reports indicate that explosives were used to blast coal seams, a highly risky and prohibited practice.
Following the tragedy, Narendra Modi announced ex-gratia assistance of ₹2 lakh to the families of each deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. Conrad K. Sangma ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident.
The episode highlights the persistent dangers of illegal coal mining and the urgent need for enforcement and alternative livelihood options in mining-affected regions.
APSC Relevance:
Illegal mining, disaster management, labour safety, governance challenges in Northeast India.
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