Rescue hopes fade in Assam mining tragedy as water level remains constant, SIT probe demanded

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJanuary 15, 2025

Efforts to rescue trapped workers from a flooded quarry in Umrangso of Assam’s Dima Hasao district, face mounting challenges as rescuers report stagnant water levels despite continuous dewatering efforts.

The mine, believed to have tapped into the source of the Kapili River, has hindered water clearance despite specialized machinery deployed by ONGC and Coal India.

Rescue operations began after nine workers became trapped on January 6 when a sudden water surge flooded the 340-foot-deep quarry. So far, four bodies have been recovered, with the first recovery on January 8 and three more on January 11. Navy divers, involved since January 8, have now withdrawn from the site due to operational challenges.

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“It is difficult to predict when the water will be fully cleared or when search operations inside the quarry can resume,” an official stated.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that the mine, reportedly abandoned for over 12 years, was under Assam Mineral Development Corporation (AMDC) control until three years ago. Authorities have arrested the workers’ leader, and investigations are underway.

Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to initiate a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the tragedy. He alleged that unchecked illegal mining and weak law enforcement are key factors contributing to such disasters in the state.

“Local complicity continues to enable illegal mining activities despite known risks,” Gogoi wrote in his letter, emphasizing the need for stricter regulatory measures and accountability.

As dewatering continues without significant progress, hope dwindles for recovering the remaining trapped workers, marking a grim chapter in Assam’s industrial safety efforts.