Shillong, Feb 10: The East Jaintia Hill district administration has activated its task force to combat illegal coal mining in the region after the February 5 deadly explosion at an illegal rat-hole coal mine in Thangsko that resulted in 30 deaths.
A meeting of the task force was held today to discuss measures to “completely” stop illegal coal mining in the district, Deputy Commissioner Manish Kumar told reporters.
“This time, strict actions include using drones for surveillance, shifting seized coal to Diphu for immediate auction, and ensuring no future illegal mining occurs,” he said.
Kumar said strict enforcement drives have been taken over the past four days to seize coal and materials used in mining and shut down illegal mines.
He informed that till yesterday, 34 FIRs have been filed.
Instructions have also been issued to the District Transport Office, District Mining Office, and other departments to take all possible actions against illegal mining, he added.
The Deputy Commissioner said the search and rescue operation for miners was called off around 5 pm on Monday after assessment teams concluded that there was no further possibility of locating survivors.
The explosion triggered a large-scale emergency response that involved the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the district administration, police, Fire and Emergency Services, and local volunteers.
Six victims who sustained injuries are currently undergoing treatment in Silchar in Assam and Shillong. Of the deceased, 26 persons have been identified, while four bodies remain unidentified..
So far, two accused – Forme Chyrmang (36) of Jalaphet Pordung village and Shamehi War (42) of Sutnga Pohwailong village, have been arrested in connection with the incident.
Kumar said names of absconding individuals will be released publicly when police make further arrests.
