Incident Overview
A sudden flood at a coal mine in Umrangso, located in Assam’s Dima Hasao district near the Meghalaya border, has trapped several laborers. The mine, approximately 300 feet deep, has experienced water levels rising up to 100 feet, complicating rescue efforts.
Rescue Efforts
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has mobilized resources, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local authorities, to expedite rescue operations. The Army’s assistance has also been sought to bolster the efforts. Despite these measures, the flooding has made the mission perilous and complex.
Statement from the Chief Minister
Chief Minister Sarma expressed his concern on social media: “Distressing news from Umrangso, where laborers are trapped in a coal mine. The exact number and status are yet unknown. Praying to God for everyone’s safety.”
List of Trapped Workers
The Chief Minister shared the following list of trapped workers:
- Ganga Bahadur Shreth (38), Nepal
- Hussain Ali (30), Darrang, Assam
- Jakir Hussain (38), Darrang, Assam
- Sarpa Barman (46), Kokrajhar, Assam
- Mustafa Seikh (44), Darrang, Assam
- Khusi Mohan Rai (57), Kokrajhar, Assam
- Sanjit Sarkar (35), Jalpaiguri, West Bengal
- Lijan Magar (26), Dima Hasao, Assam
- Sarat Goyary (37), Sonitpur, Assam
Current Status
Reports suggest that up to 15 workers may have been inside the mine during the flooding, though this number has yet to be officially confirmed. Dima Hasao Superintendent of Police, Mayank Kumar Jha, stated that the situation remains critical, with rescuers facing immense challenges due to the mine’s flooded conditions.
Conclusion
The situation in Umrangso is dire, with rescue teams working tirelessly to reach the trapped laborers. The state government continues to monitor the situation closely, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Source: India Today NE
