Assam: The Assam government has announced a judicial inquiry and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the tragic coal mine incident in Umrangso, Dima Hasao district, where four workers lost their lives and five others remain trapped inside the flooded mine.
The incident occurred on January 6, when sudden water influx trapped nine workers in the rat-hole coal mine.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, after a Cabinet meeting, declared an ex-gratia compensation of ₹10 lakh for the families of all nine workers, irrespective of their recovery status. Additionally, the government has ordered the closure of all 220 similar rat-hole mines in the area to prevent further incidents.
The Chief Minister acknowledged that the chances of survival for the remaining trapped miners are slim, based on assessments by rescue agencies. He stated that the dewatering process, which could take up to 60 days, will continue until a “logical end” is reached. So far, four bodies have been recovered during rescue operations.
The Cabinet approved a judicial inquiry to be led by Justice (Retd) Anima Hazarika, who will submit her findings within three months. The SIT, directed by the Director General of Police, will conduct a criminal investigation under the supervision of the Justice Hazarika committee.
Satellite mapping technology will be deployed to trace the origin and timeline of the 220 rat-hole mines in the area, with support from ISRO or foreign agencies, as needed. The Revenue and Disaster Management department will lead this effort. The government is also working with the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute to initiate the process of filling up these hazardous quarries.
This tragedy has brought renewed focus on illegal mining practices, and the government’s decisive steps aim to ensure accountability and prevent future incidents.
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