SHILLONG: Even as the implementation of the Mining Policy is delayed in the State death of coal labourers due to improper working conditions continues in Meghalaya.
The latest tragedy struck a coal mine in Borsora, South West Khasi Hills where four labourers were killed after inhaling some highly toxic acids inside the mine on October 9. The South West Khasi Hills district administration has ordered a magisterial inquiry into it.
The labourers killed in the tragic incident have been identified as Wanphai Nongkynrih of Iapngar, Ri-Bhoi district, Shinning Star Mawlieh of Mawthadpdah, West Khasi Hills, Biangborlin Sangriang and Hapiu Jahrin from Rangblang,West Khasi Hills.
When contacted on Saturday, South West Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Ripnar Lyngdoh informed that even though the incident took place on October 9, the matter was brought to her notice by Mawkyrwat legislator and Deputy Chief Minister Rowell Lyngdoh on October 10.
“After receiving the information, I called up the Superintendent of Police to inquire about the incident. But even the SP has no knowledge about this. The SP even contacted the officer in charge of various police units of the area but no one has any information,” Lyngdoh said.
She said that the information did not reach the authority since the mine owner Kmenskhem Nongrem did not report it to police.
The South West Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner asked Extra Assistant Commissioner (EAC) Raja Brahma to conduct an inquiry into the incident.
“I am expecting to get the inquiry report next week,” she said.
Lyngdoh informed that the search operation to retrieve the bodies was started by the Fire Service special team and the home guard at 12 noon on October 11 and the last body was recovered by 4.30 pm.
“The post mortem (of the bodies) was done on Saturday and the bodies were handed over to the relatives,” she said.
Meanwhile, SouthWest Khasi Hills SP Debangshu Sangma informed that they have arrested the owner of the mines and the general manager Sadarwell Iawphniaw for interrogation.