Explosion at Illegal Coal Mine in Meghalaya Kills 18, Rescue and Probe Underway

At least 18 labourers were killed and several others feared trapped following a dynamite explosion at a suspected illegal rat-hole coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district on February 5, 2026. Rescue operations involving the State and National Disaster Response Forces are ongoing amid challenging conditions. The mine, operating despite a 2014 ban by the National Green Tribunal, highlights persistent illegal mining issues. Authorities have launched inquiries, arrested two mine owners, and the Meghalaya High Court has ordered arrests and summoned officials. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders expressed condolences and announced ex-gratia payments to victims' families.