18 killed in coal mine explosion in India’s Meghalaya, many trapped

At least 18 people were killed in a coal mine explosion in the East Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya, India. Following the blast inside the mine on Thursday, several workers were trapped. Police later recovered the bodies during rescue operations, though many remain trapped, BBC reported.

Police sources said the explosion occurred in a remote area, and the mine was allegedly being operated illegally. Members of the State Disaster Response Force joined the police in the rescue operation. Superintendent of Police Bikash Kumar stated that the difficult terrain caused delays in the rescue efforts.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the incident and announced compensation of ₹200,000 for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. President Droupadi Murmu also conveyed condolences to the victims’ families.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said an investigation into the explosion has begun. The Meghalaya High Court has ordered the arrest of those responsible for operating the mine and has taken suo motu cognizance of the case.