Couple Perishes in Shahdol, MP as Unlicensed Coal Pit Collapses
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Synopsis
In a heartbreaking incident in Dhangawan village, Madhya Pradesh, a labourer couple died when an unlicensed coal pit caved in. The couple's tragic passing has raised serious concerns about illegal mining activities in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Tragic collapse of an unlicensed coal pit in Shahdol.
- Couple identified as Omkar and Parvati Yadav.
- Victims leave behind five children.
- Local authorities deny the site was an illegal mine.
- Investigation into mining practices is ongoing.
Bhopal, Feb 17 (NationPress) In a devastating incident in Dhangawan village within the Budhar Police station region of Madhya Pradesh's Shahdol district, a couple of labourers tragically lost their lives when an unlicensed coal mining operation collapsed.
The calamity took place on the banks of the Son River on Sunday evening.
Nevertheless, law enforcement authorities have denied assertions regarding the operation's illegality.
Sanjay Jaiswal, the officer in charge of Budhar police station, stated via phone to IANS that the area is abundant in coal, and villagers frequently extract it themselves. He pointed out that it was not a traditional mine but rather an approximately ten-foot-deep pit at the riverbank that collapsed while the couple was gathering coal, burying them under the debris.
Other individuals were on site but fled when they could not save the couple, according to the official. Villagers later spotted the trapped pair and alerted the police. The deceased have been identified as Omkar Yadav and Parvati Yadav, with their remains transported for post-mortem examination at the government hospital in Budhar, Shahdol district.
The state Congress unit president, Jitu Patwari, criticized the government on social media via his X account, accusing them of empowering the mafia through negligence. He expressed his outrage in Hindi regarding the incident.
The couple leaves behind five young children, and reports suggest that other labourers could also be trapped under the rubble, with allegations that mine owners attempted to conceal the event.
As villagers raised their voices about the situation, the incident gained attention, prompting the Collector and Superintendent of Police to arrive at the location. Both bodies were recovered with the assistance of an earthmoving machine working late into the night.
However, police sources reassured IANS that no additional individuals were trapped and that a thorough investigation is currently underway.
