Dima Hasao, Jan 24: The Assam government has initiated a major operation to close illegal rat-hole coal mines across the state after a tragic incident in Dima Hasao district. On January 9, nine miners were trapped in the 3-Kilo Coal Quarry in Umrangso when a sudden flood of water inundated the mine. Four bodies have been recovered, while five miners remain missing.
The accident has led to intense criticism from opposition parties, who accuse the government of negligence, especially since the National Green Tribunal (NGT) had banned rat-hole mining in 2014. Despite the ban, illegal mining continues to thrive in the region.
In response, Assam’s Director General of Police (DGP), G.P. Singh, who has been recently promoted to lead the CRPF, ordered the closure of rat-hole mines in Tinsukia and Dima Hasao districts. Singh directed local authorities to take strict action, particularly in the Margherita-Ledo region, which is known for illegal mining.
Authorities have identified several hotspots for illegal mining, including Tipong, Aradhara, and Lalapahar. Multiple rat-hole mines have already been shut down, and workers have been instructed to leave the sites. Authorities are also conducting searches to locate additional illegal mining operations, particularly in remote, hilly areas.
While no arrests have been made as of yet, officials have warned that legal action will be taken against those involved in illegal mining once sufficient evidence is gathered. Rescue operations are also continuing in Umrangso to locate the trapped miners.
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