Assam Cabinet Approves Judicial Inquiry And SIT For Umrangso Coal Mine Tragedy

GUWAHATI: The Assam Cabinet on Thursday approved a judicial inquiry into the recent Umrangso coal mine tragedy hit and decided to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) for the criminal investigation of the incident. This tragedy happened in the Umrangso coal reserves of Assam’s Dima Hasao district, where five miners are trapped inside a flooded mine.

Following the Cabinet meeting in Morigaon, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the government would provide Rs 10 lakh in financial assistance to the families of each of the victims, including those whose bodies have not yet been recovered. A judicial inquiry will be led by Justice Anima Hazarika, a retired judge of the Gauhati High Court, who will submit a report within three months.

The decision follows the tragic event that occurred ten days ago when nine miners were trapped in a flooded rat-hole mine. Although four bodies have been recovered, rescue operations involving the Indian Army, Navy, and National and State Disaster Response Forces continue. Despite ongoing dewatering efforts, the mine remains submerged.

In addition to the judicial inquiry, the Assam government has directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to set up an SIT to further probe the incident. The progress of the SIT will be overseen by the Justice Anima Hazarika Commission.

Addressing political concerns over illegal mining activities, Chief Minister Sarma disclosed that 220 illegal mines have been identified in the Umrangso area. To trace their origins, the state government plans to utilize satellite imagery, including data from ISRO and foreign agencies. Additionally, the government will collaborate with the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute in Jharkhand to assist in filling the mines.

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