Six workers are still trapped in a flooded coal mine in Assam’s Dima Hasao district after water suddenly inundated the mine on January 6. The incident occurred at a mine in the Umrangso area, where water filled the 300-foot-deep shaft, trapping nine workers.
Rescuers recovered the bodies of three workers on Tuesday and are intensively searching for the remaining six. The Army, Navy, and scuba divers are working relentlessly to locate and rescue the trapped workers. Rising water levels inside the mine, reaching around 100 feet, are complicating the operation. Rescuers are using two high-powered machines to pump out the water.
A team of 30 NDRF members, eight SDRF personnel, and ground and air forces are coordinating rescue efforts. Specialist divers, engineers, medical teams, and support staff from the Army and Assam Rifles are deploying advanced rescue equipment at the site.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that the coal mine was operating illegally. Authorities have registered a case under the Mines and Minerals Act, of 1957, and arrested Punis Nunisa, a miner involved in the illegal operation. Initial reports claimed 15 workers were trapped, but mine workers later confirmed nine names.
Rescue teams are maintaining communication with the administration and intensifying efforts to extract the workers. After pausing briefly on Tuesday night, rescue operations resumed early Wednesday morning.
The incident exposes the dangers of illegal mining and has prompted demands for stricter safety enforcement. Authorities are determined to rescue the remaining workers and hold those responsible accountable.