The search operation at the site of the coal mine collapse in Assam's Dima Hasao district has led to the recovery of the fourth body, as rescuers continue their efforts to recover more victims. The mine, which was abandoned but reportedly reactivated illegally, collapsed earlier this week, trapping several workers underground. The identity of the deceased remains unconfirmed.
The Indian Army and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been working tirelessly to clear the debris and pump out the water that flooded the mine. Inspector Singh, the NDRF Team Commander, stated that the water level has decreased by six meters, thanks to five pumps operating overnight. "The operation is ongoing 24 hours, and the water level is receding," Singh told ANI.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who visited the site earlier, confirmed that nine workers had been trapped in the rat-hole coal mine. Sarma clarified that while the mine was originally legal and abandoned, the decision to restart work in the mine was illegal.
In connection with the incident, the police have arrested two individuals: Hanan Laskar, the head of the mine workers, and Punish Nunisa, the leaseholder of the mine. Laskar, who fled the scene following the incident, was apprehended by authorities, while Nunisa was arrested for his role in the illegal operation of the mine.
