How Did the Bodies of Three Workers Get Recovered 13 Days After Being Trapped in an Illegal Coal Mine in Jharkhand's Hazaribagh?
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Synopsis
The tragic recovery of three workers' bodies from an illegal coal mine in Jharkhand's Hazaribagh highlights ongoing issues of safety and illegal mining practices. This incident has reignited calls for governmental accountability and support for the victims' families.
Key Takeaways
- Three workers tragically lost their lives in an illegal coal mine.
- Heavy rainfall caused the Khawa River to overflow.
- Rescue operations were severely hindered due to flooding.
- Local villagers are demanding compensation for the deceased families.
- Illegal mining remains a pressing issue in the region.
Hazaribagh, June 3 (NationPress) - After thirteen days of being trapped, the remains of three workers were found in an illegal coal mine located in the Keredari block of Jharkhand's Hazaribagh district, as reported by officials on Tuesday. The victims, identified as Pramod Shah (45), Umesh Kumar (25), and Naushad Ansari (24), all hailed from Kandaber village under the jurisdiction of the Keredari police station.
These individuals were allegedly swept into the mine on May 21 due to heavy rainfall that caused the Khawa River to overflow.
Local residents reported that the strong current pulled the workers into one of the many illegal tunnels in the area, which are often controlled by coal mafias, continuing to operate despite the inherent dangers.
The mine shaft where they became trapped was over 100 feet deep and quickly filled with water, complicating rescue operations significantly.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) undertook a three-day search to locate the bodies but had to halt due to severe waterlogging.
Eventually, the responsibility for dewatering the mine was assigned to NTPC and a private contractor. After days of relentless pumping, the water level decreased, allowing local villagers to recover the bodies late on Monday night.
On Tuesday morning, police transported the remains for autopsy to Sheikh Bhikhari Medical College and Hospital in Hazaribagh. After the post-mortem examination, the bodies were returned to Kandaber and cremated the same afternoon.
The village was engulfed in sorrow, with relatives and neighbors visibly distraught as the tragic news circulated.
Chaos ensued as the bodies were brought back to the village.
In the aftermath, villagers reiterated demands for compensation and job opportunities for one family member of each deceased worker.
Despite numerous incidents, illegal mining activities persist in the Khawa river belt of Keredari, attracting many locals in search of employment while exposing them to exploitation.
Point of View
I emphasize the crucial need for a comprehensive approach to tackle illegal mining in Jharkhand. The tragic loss of these workers serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing risks faced by vulnerable laborers. It is imperative for authorities to act decisively to prevent such incidents in the future.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the workers to get trapped in the mine?
The workers were swept into the mine due to heavy rainfall, which caused the Khawa River to swell.
How deep was the mine shaft where the workers were trapped?
The mine shaft was over 100 feet deep.
What efforts were made to recover the bodies?
The National Disaster Response Force conducted a three-day operation, followed by dewatering efforts by NTPC and a private company.
What has been the community's response to this incident?
The village is in mourning, with calls for compensation and government jobs for the families of the deceased workers.
What is the status of illegal mining in the region?
Illegal mining continues unabated in the Khawa river belt, putting local workers at risk.
