Shillong: In a tragic incident highlighting the continued dangers of illegal coal mining, at least 18 people have lost their lives following an explosion inside an illegal coal mine at Mynsyngat in the Thangsko area under Umpleng Police Outpost in East Jaintia Hills district, Meghalaya.
The incident came to light on the morning of February 5, 2026. East Jaintia Hills Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar said that upon receiving reports of a blast at the site, senior police officers along with personnel rushed to the location to verify the information. On arrival, it was confirmed that an explosion had occurred inside the mine pit, leaving several workers trapped.
Rescue and disaster response operations were launched immediately. According to the latest reports, 18 bodies have been recovered from the debris. One injured survivor was rescued and initially taken to Sutnga Community Health Centre (CHC). Due to the severity of injuries, the person was later referred to a higher medical centre for further treatment.
A multi-agency rescue operation is underway to ensure no other victims remain trapped. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the Special Rescue Team (SRT) are engaged in recovery efforts at the site.
The Superintendent of Police said that police have taken suo motu cognisance of the incident and registered a First Information Report at Khliehriat Police Station (Case No. 14/2026). An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the explosion and to identify those responsible for operating the illegal mine.
Authorities have appealed to the public to assist in the investigation. Anyone with information regarding individuals involved in the illegal activity has been requested to inform the nearest police station. Police have assured that the identity of informants will be kept confidential and that a suitable reward will be provided.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow over the incident and conveyed condolences to the families of the deceased while wishing a speedy recovery to the injured. In a message shared on social media, he said, “I am pained by the mishap in East Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya. My condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.”
The Prime Minister also announced financial assistance from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund, with an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 for those injured.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said a detailed inquiry has been ordered into the incident. Expressing grief over the tragedy, he said the state government would take strict action against those found responsible.
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“The Meghalaya government has ordered a comprehensive inquiry. Responsibility will be fixed, and those involved will face strict legal action. There will be no compromise on the safety of human lives,” the Chief Minister said.
He added that the state government stands with the affected families and will extend all possible support. The Chief Minister also announced an ex gratia of Rs 3 lakh from the Government of Meghalaya to the next of kin of each deceased.
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