Guwahati: A massive joint rescue operation is ongoing in Assam’s Umrangso area to save eight workers trapped inside a coal mine at 3 Kilo since January 6. The effort involves the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, NDRF, SDRF, and other agencies. Tragically, one worker’s body has already been recovered from the mine.
The operation faces significant challenges due to the accumulation of water inside the mine, which is hampering rescue efforts. On January 8, HPS Kandari, Commandant of the 1st Battalion, NDRF, provided an update on the situation, stating, “The process has already started; they are using two pumps. One is already pumping the water, and the other one is also getting started. This process will go on through the night…once the water is removed, we can go inside and do the manual search.”
Rescue teams are tirelessly working to drain the water to enable safe access for manual searches. Local authorities have also deployed additional resources to expedite the process, with hopes of retrieving the trapped workers alive.
The incident has raised serious concerns about safety protocols in coal mining operations. Many are calling for stricter enforcement of safety regulations to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As rescue efforts continue, the families of the trapped workers anxiously await updates, while the teams remain steadfast in their mission to bring all remaining individuals to safety. Further updates on the operation are expected soon.
Read More: Three Arrested in Mizoram with Heroin Worth Rs 83.7 Lakh