Meghalaya coal mine explosion: Two mine owners arrested, rescue operations ongoing

Two mine owners were arrested on Friday (February 6, 2026), as operations continue to rescue more miners who are presumed to be trapped after an explosion in an illegally operated coal mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills on Thursday (February 5).

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said the government has been cracking down on illegal rat-hole mines. “Over 1,000 cases have been registered so far, and scores of people have been arrested in the same”, he said.

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The CM has assured of stringent action against those responsible for the explosion. He has also deputed two Cabinet Ministers to assess the situation on the ground.

The Chief Minister said the Ministers have been asked to visit the spot, meet officials and take stock of the rescue, relief and law and order situation.

Mr. Sangma also announced an ex-gratia of ₹3 lakh each from the State government for the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the accident.

The explosion the coal mine of the biggest mishaps in Meghalaya since July 2012, when 15 miners died in a flooded mine in the State’s South Garo Hills district. Two years later, in 2014, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) banned the hazardous mining method.