KOHIMA: In a grim revelation, the Directorate of Geology & Mining (DGM) has determined that the coal mine accident in Wokha, claiming the lives of six miners, was triggered by a “fire and explosion of methane gas”.
The investigation pointed to a potential frictional spark from a portable handheld drilling machine as the cause of the deadly incident.
The DGM’s conclusion follows an on-site inspection with a team of officials to delve into the circumstances leading to the accident.
According to a statement issued by Dr. Kenyelo Rengma, the DGM Additional Director, the illegal mine (Rat hole mine 4ft x 4.5t1) operated by locals in collaboration with non-locals was approximately 70 km from Dimapur and 4 km from Liphi village.
Expressing deep sorrow over the lives lost, the statement extended condolences to the bereaved families and wished a swift recovery for the injured.
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The DGM also underscored its commitment to curbing illegal coal mining in the state and assured its continuous support to coal miners.
Despite this, the DGM stressed the critical role of miners in cooperating with the department and strictly adhering to mining guidelines to prevent future accidents.
The tragic incident on January 25 saw six workers lose their lives and four others sustain serious injuries in an illegal rat-hole coal mine in Wokha district.
Initial reports suggested that while manually extracting coal from the rat hole mine, a lamp used for illumination exploded, igniting the fire.
Rat-hole mining, characterised by tunnels suitable for manual extraction, has witnessed previous fatalities in Nagaland, particularly in the Naginimora area of Mon district.
The recurrence of such incidents highlights the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and stringent control over illegal mining practices in the region.
