Rescue Operations Enter Day 8 in Assam’s Dima Hasao District

Efforts to save five coal miners trapped in a flooded quarry in Assam’s Dima Hasao district have entered their eighth day, with concerns mounting as chances of survival diminish.

Nine Workers Trapped After Sudden Flooding

On January 6, nine workers became trapped when a sudden gush of water flooded an abandoned quarry. Four bodies have been recovered, while five miners remain unaccounted for.

Special Equipment Deployed to Dewater Quarry

Specialized pumping equipment, provided by Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Coal India, has been working tirelessly to drain water from the quarry. Despite significant progress in reducing water levels, rescuers remain uncertain about when ground operations can safely resume.

Multi-Agency Task Force Leads Rescue Efforts

A multi-agency task force, including the Indian Navy, Army, Assam Rifles, NDRF, SDRF, and local authorities, has been leading the rescue mission. State Mines and Minerals Minister Kaushik Rai expressed optimism that the dewatering process might conclude by Tuesday.

Adding to the efforts, an underwater Remote Operating Vehicle (ROV) is being used to capture images from within the quarry, aiding rescue planning.

Illegal Mining Debate Sparks Political Controversy

The tragedy has reignited debates over illegal mining in Assam. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed that the quarry had been abandoned for 12 years and was previously managed by the Assam Mineral Development Corporation until three years ago. He also confirmed the arrest of a miners’ leader, linked to ongoing police investigations.

Meanwhile, Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the incident. Gogoi alleged that illegal mining persists due to weak enforcement and local complicity.

Conclusion

The rescue operations remain critical, with agencies racing against time to save the trapped miners. The incident highlights pressing concerns about illegal mining practices and the urgent need for stricter regulatory measures.