Meghalaya Coal Mine Blast Death Toll Climbs To 27 As Rescue Operations Continue | Outlook India

The death toll from an explosion at an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills has reached 27 after rescue teams recovered two additional bodies. The incident occurred earlier this week in the Mynsyngat–Thangsko area. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and state agencies are continuing search and rescue operations in difficult underground conditions to locate more trapped miners. Nine people were injured and are receiving treatment. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has promised strict action against illegal 'rat-hole' mining operations, which remain active despite being officially banned due to safety and environmental risks. Investigations into the cause of the blast and safety lapses are underway.