No rescues yet, multi-agency teams mobilized: Assam minister on Umrangso coal mine tragedy

Assam Mines and Minerals Minister Kaushik Rai provided an update on the ongoing rescue operation at the Umrangso coal mine where around 15 labourers are reported to be trapped after water gushed in leading to a flood like situation inside the rat hole mine on January 6.

"We have not been able to rescue anyone till now, but the rescue operation is in full swing," Rai said while speaking to the media.  

Highlighting the extensive deployment of resources, the minister confirmed the presence of State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Assam Rifles, and the Indian Army at the site. Additionally, teams from the Navy and the Indian Air Force have been mobilized to bolster the operation.  

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is personally overseeing the situation, with senior officials actively engaged on the ground. "All possible efforts are being made to rescue everyone," the minister reassured.

Assam Police have registered an FIR under Umrangso PS Case No: 02/2025, citing Sections 3(5)/105 BNS and Section 21(1) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, in connection with the ongoing investigation into the Umrangso mine incident.

Preliminary findings suggest the mine may be operating illegally. 

Police have arrested one individual, Punish Nunisa, in connection with the case. 

Investigations are underway to determine further details surrounding the incident.

Fifteen labourers are reported trapped inside a coal mine in the 3 Kilo area of Umrangso, located in the Dima Hasao district of Assam, after water flooded the site on January 6. The Assam Coal Quarry, the location of the accident, became the focus of intense rescue efforts as authorities scrambled to save the lives of the trapped miners.

The flooding occurred suddenly, leaving the workers with no time to escape. The exact cause of the water intrusion remains unclear, but early reports suggest that an underground water source may have been breached, leading to the rapid influx of water into the mine. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as the water level rose swiftly, cutting off escape routes and trapping the miners deep underground.