Dima Hasao, Jan 24: The Assam government has launched an operation to close down illegal rat-hole coal mines following a tragic incident in the Dima Hasao district. On January 9, nine miners were trapped in the 3-Kilo Coal Quarry in Umrangso after a sudden flooding. While four bodies have been recovered, five miners are still missing.
The incident has sparked outrage, with the opposition accusing the government of negligence and questioning the continued operation of rat-hole mines despite a 2014 ban by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
In response, Assam’s Director General of Police (DGP), G P Singh, who was recently promoted to CRPF DG, directed authorities to shut down rat-hole mining operations in the Tinsukia and Dima Hasao districts. Areas like Margherita-Ledo, which are known for illegal mining activities, are being closely monitored.
Local authorities have already closed several mines, and efforts are underway to identify more illegal sites. Teams are being deployed in remote regions, where these mines are often hidden in difficult-to-reach areas. Legal action will be taken against those found guilty of operating illegal mines.
Meanwhile, rescue operations continue in Umrangso as authorities work to locate the five missing miners.
