Shillong, Feb 16: The dead body of a mine worker, who died in a recent explosion at an illegal coal mining site in the Mynsngat–Thangsko area of East Jaintia Hills District, still lies at the Khliehriat Civil Hospital morgue.
Police said following an inquest and autopsy, the body is suspected to be a non-tribal, aged about 40 years.
Earlier, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma informed the Legislative Assembly that a total of 33 people have died following a deadly explosion.
Making a suo-motu statement in the House, the Chief Minister said 18 bodies were recovered on the first day, followed by four on February 6 and two on February 7. Eight injured persons were rescued, but four later succumbed to their injuries at NEIGRIHMS in Shillong and Agie Hospital in Beltola, Guwahati.
Two additional deaths reported by families were later verified by authorities, taking the total toll to 33 as of February 16.
The Chief Minister said ex-gratia relief has begun, with Rs. 24 lakh already disbursed to the families of eight deceased victims, while the process of compensating the remaining families is underway.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioner & Chairman District Disaster Management Authority has issued a public notice for individuals and families affected by the explosion to apply for financial assistance under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF).
Affected individuals or families who suffered loss of life or injuries can submit their applications to the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Relief Branch, East Jaintia Hills District Khliehriat.
Required documents include copy of Aadhaar Card (victim and next of kin), address, pin code, bank account details (if spouse’s account, birth certificate of children or marriage certificate)
Applications will be accepted for those meeting the SDRF criteria, the notice said.
Drone survey of illegal coal mines
The District Magistrate East Jaintia Hills District has said that officials from the Meghalaya Basin Development Authority (MBDA) will conduct a drone survey to identify rat-hole coal mining in the district.
This follows recent blast at an illegal coal mine in Mynsngat Thangsko area.
It may be mentioned that MBDA was already engaged to carry out an aerial survey to locate illegal coal mining, sale, and transportation, as recommended by the Justice (Retd.) B.P. Katakey Committee.
The DM said the survey aims to map illegal mining activities.
Residents of East Jaintia Hills District have been directed to cooperate with the district administration to ensure a smooth survey process.
