Meghalaya Coal Mine Blast: 16 Dead, Several Feared Trapped; NDRF Teams Deployed for Rescue

Three teams of the National Disaster Response Force have been deployed to Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district after a deadly explosion at a suspected illegal coal mine claimed at least 16 lives on Thursday. Officials said the blast occurred in the Thangsku area during the morning hours, triggering a large-scale rescue operation. Several labourers are feared to be trapped inside the mine, though the exact number of workers present at the time of the incident is still unknown. Local authorities, police personnel and specialised rescue teams are continuing search efforts amid challenging conditions at the site.

Three teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been moved to Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district to carry out rescue operations after at least 16 people were killed and several labourers were feared trapped in an explosion at a suspected illegal coal mine in…

— ANI (@ANI) February 5, 2026

Meghalaya Director General of Police I. Nongrang confirmed that 16 bodies have been recovered so far from the mine. She said rescue operations are ongoing, with teams working to locate any remaining trapped labourers. “The total number of workers inside the mine at the time of the explosion has not yet been confirmed, and there is a possibility that more people are still trapped,” Nongrang said. Officials added that efforts are being made to clear debris and ensure safe access for rescue personnel involved in the operation.

East Jaintia Hills Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar said one labourer sustained injuries in the blast and was initially taken to Sutnga Primary Health Centre. Due to the seriousness of the injuries, the person was later referred to a hospital in Shillong for advanced medical treatment. Kumar stated that preliminary findings suggest the explosion took place during coal extraction activities. He added that the mine appears to have been operating illegally, and the exact cause of the explosion will be determined through a detailed inquiry.

Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma tweets, "Profoundly saddened by the tragic coal mine incident in East Jaintia Hills. My deepest sympathies are with the families who have lost their loved ones in this unfortunate tragedy. The Government of Meghalaya has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the incident. Accountability will be fixed, and those responsible will face strict legal action. There will be no compromise when it comes to the safety of lives. In this moment of sorrow, the State stands in solidarity with all those affected."

Profoundly saddened by the tragic coal mine incident in East Jaintia Hills. My deepest sympathies are with the families who have lost their loved ones in this unfortunate tragedy.

The Government of Meghalaya has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the incident. Accountability…

— Conrad K Sangma (@SangmaConrad) February 5, 2026

Coal mining in Meghalaya, particularly rat-hole mining, has been under strict scrutiny for years due to safety and environmental concerns. In 2014, the National Green Tribunal imposed a ban on rat-hole mining and other unscientific practices, citing severe risks to workers and ecological damage. The Supreme Court later upheld the ban, allowing mining only through regulated and scientific methods with environmental safeguards. Rat-hole mining involves narrow tunnels just large enough for one person, making it extremely dangerous and prone to fatal accidents.