Asansol/Kulti: A major accident occurred during illegal coal mining at a Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) open-cast project (OCP) in Bodiraya under Kulti police station in Asansol, Paschim Bardhaman district. At least six people were trapped when a tunnel inside the mine suddenly collapsed on Tuesday, triggering panic in the area.
So far, four people have been rescued from the mine. Two of them, including a woman, were declared dead, while the other two are critically injured and are undergoing treatment at Asansol District Hospital.
There are fears that at least two more people are still trapped inside the mine. Rescue operations are underway on a war footing with the help of poklane machines. A large contingent of police and CISF personnel has been deployed at the site.
Following the incident, hundreds of people gathered around the open-cast mine. Family members of the deceased and the missing have also reached the area and were seen breaking down while searching for their loved ones.
It has been alleged that some coal mafia members are trying to force the families of the victims to leave the area. However, the families have remained firm, waiting for a glimpse of their loved ones, hoping that some may still be alive and can be rescued by the authorities.
Notably, several fatal accidents due to mine collapses have occurred earlier at the Bodiraya coal mine. Despite this, illegal coal mining continues unabated. Allegations suggest that three to four truckloads of illegal coal are transported daily to nearby coal depots and brick kilns.
The incident has once again raised serious questions about mine safety and illegal coal extraction. Police said an investigation is underway to ascertain the exact cause of the accident.