Assam: The Indian Army and Navy have launched a joint rescue operation to save miners trapped in a flooded coal mine in the Umrangso area of Assam’s Dima Hasao district.
The mine, located in the remote “3 Kilo” area near the Assam-Meghalaya border, became inundated, leaving an estimated 15 to 20 miners stranded inside.
Rescue efforts are being significantly hampered by rising water levels within the mine, which have reached nearly 100 feet according to assessments by the Army’s Engineer Task Force (ETF). To assist in the rescue, Navy deep divers from Visakhapatnam have been requisitioned and are expected to arrive shortly.
The Indian Army has deployed the 32 Assam Rifles Pathfinder Unit and an ETF led by the Commanding Officer of an Engineer Regiment. Specialized teams, including PARA diving units, have been mobilized to navigate the flooded mine. Aerial reconnaissance missions involving senior Army officials have also been conducted to provide real-time assessments and strategic guidance for ground teams.
The mine’s remote location and limited infrastructure have presented significant challenges to the rescue operation. Despite these obstacles, the Army, Navy, and local authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety of the trapped miners.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the state administration are closely monitoring the situation. Dima Hasao Superintendent of Police (SP) Mayank Kumar Jha stated that several miners are feared trapped, but the exact number remains unconfirmed.
The Indian Army’s official statement highlighted that the relief task force includes divers, sappers, and other experts equipped with advanced equipment necessary for such high-stakes missions.
As rescue efforts continue, the combined expertise of the Army and Navy provides hope for the safe recovery of those trapped. Further updates are expected as the operation progresses.
Read More: Assam: Three Injured in Goalpara House Fire Following Suspected Gas Cylinder Explosion