From Our Correspondent
KHLIEHRIAT, Feb 16: One of the victims of the devastating February 5 explosion at an illegal rat-hole coal mine in Mynsyngat-Thangsko area is yet to be identified, East Jaintia Hills authorities informed on Monday.
As per the latest report, the blast inside the mine has claimed 33 lives, while leaving several others injured.
According to information, one victim’s body—a non-tribal male (40 years) and around 5 feet tall—remains unidentified and unclaimed.
The body underwent inquest and autopsy procedures and continues to lie in the morgue at Khliehriat Civil Hospital, officials said.
Meanwhile, in response to the disaster and persistent illegal mining, East Khasi Hills District Magistrate Manish Kumar has directed officials from the Meghalaya Basin Development Authority (MBDA) to assist the Directorate of Mineral Resources and police in conducting a drone survey to identify illegal rat-hole coal mining sites across the district.
Additionally, Kumar announced that individuals or families affected by the explosion—including those who lost lives or sustained injuries—may apply for financial assistance under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). Applications should be submitted to the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Relief Branch, East Jaintia Hills District, Khliehriat, along with a copy of Aadhaar card of the victim and next of kin, address details, including pin code, and bank account details.
