16 dead in Meghalaya 'illegal' coal mine blast; several feared trapped

2026-02-05 - 15:35

Tragedy struck Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills as an explosion at a suspected illegal coal mine claimed at least 16 lives on Thursday. Several others remain trapped as rescue operations are underway. Officials confirmed the blast occurred in the Thangsku area, with one injured labourer hospitalized. The incident highlights the dangers of unscientific mining practices.