Video: West Bengal Coal Mine Collapse: Three Dead, MLA Alleges Mafia Network

West Bengal: A tragic accident in Asansol, West Bengal, on Tuesday morning shocked the entire area. An open coal mine located in the Barira area of ​​the Kulti police station area suddenly collapsed. At that time some workers were going inside and taking out coal. As soon as the debris fell, they got buried under it.

The accident happened around 7:45 in the morning. The mine is said to belong to Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL). After the incident, there was chaos among the people nearby, and the police were immediately informed.

How did the workers get trapped in the mine?

Local people say that the workers had entered the mine secretly. They extract coal through narrow tunnels, which is colloquially called “rat hole mining.” This method is extremely dangerous, but people take this risk out of compulsion to earn their livelihood.

How many people were saved?

BJP MLA from Kulti Ajay Poddar said that five people were in the mine at the time of the accident. Two laborers were taken out alive, while three died. The bodies were pulled out from the debris.

How did the rescue operation go?

After the accident, BCCL officials, police and relief teams reached the spot. The debris was removed with the help of JCB machines. Both the rescued laborers have been sent to the hospital in critical condition. No official update has been given on his condition at present.

What does the administration say?

The District Magistrate of West Burdwan said that the entire matter is being investigated. It is being seen how the workers entered the mine and what the reasons for the accident were.

What allegations did the MLA make?

Ajay Poddar alleged that illegal coal mining in the area is going on through an organized network. He said that there could be collusion between some policemen and security forces with the coal mafia. However, there has been no official confirmation on this yet.

How is the atmosphere in the area?

There is mourning in the entire area after the accident. The families who have lost their loved ones are in poor condition and crying. Local people say that due to lack of work and poverty, workers risk their lives to enter the mines.

This accident has once again raised questions on safety and illegal activities in mining areas.