SHILLONG, Feb 6: The Justice (Retd.) BP Katakey-headed committee on Friday issued a stern warning following the deadly explosion at an illegal coal mine in Thangsko village, East Jaintia Hills, on Thursday stating that similar tragedies could recur if the administration fails to intervene decisively to stop illegal coal mining in compliance to the ban imposed by the National Green Tribunal.
Justice (Retd.) BP Katakey, who on Friday visited the site of mine explosion that claimed 18 lives, said more such incidents may occur in East Jaintia Hills if the authorities are not willing to stop illegal mining activities.
He remarked that if the administration does not act, nobody can stop it, pointing out that the incident has occurred in the same area where previous fatalities were reported.
He noted that two persons had died earlier in the area, followed by another recent death, and that at least 18 bodies have now been recovered from the latest explosion, all in almost the same locality.
Katakey informed that he has scheduled meetings with the Superintendent of Police and the Deputy Commissioner of East Jaintia Hills and will seek a detailed report on the circumstances leading to the blast.
He reiterated that he wants a comprehensive report on the incident.
The explosion has once again raised serious questions over the enforcement of prohibitions on illegal coal mining in the state, particularly in East Jaintia Hills, where fatal accidents linked to unlawful operations continue to surface.
