11 Arrested in Crackdown on Illegal Coal Mining in Assam’s Umrangso
In a significant operation against illegal coal mining, the Dima Hasao Police have apprehended 11 individuals linked to mining activities at the Assam Coal Quarry in Umrangso. Superintendent of Police Mayank Kumar confirmed the arrests and stated that the suspects have been taken to Haflong Police Station for questioning. The identities of those arrested have been withheld due to the ongoing investigation.
Probe into Unreported Fatalities
The crackdown has also led to an investigation into unreported fatalities at the quarry, which sources claim have occurred frequently but remain concealed due to compensation provided by mine owners to victims’ families.
- December 2024 Incident:
Two miners entered a rat-hole mining shaft, where a collapse of coal debris buried one miner alive. Although the body was retrieved, the incident was not reported to authorities as the family received compensation of Rs. 1.5 to Rs. 2 lakh. - 2023 Incident:
A crane operating at the site collapsed onto a dumper, which subsequently fell on a worker, killing him instantly. This death also went unreported, with the family being compensated Rs. 2 lakh by the mine owner.
Safety Concerns and Accountability
Frequent fatalities at the quarry have raised serious concerns about the lack of safety protocols and accountability. Sources indicate that these incidents reflect a broader pattern of negligence and exploitation within illegal mining operations.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities believe more unreported deaths and additional individuals involved in the illegal mining network may come to light as the probe continues. The arrests mark a step toward addressing the deeply entrenched issues of illegal mining and associated risks to human lives in the region.
