6 Dead, Many Others Injured In Coal Mine Explosion At West Bengal’s Birbhum

Kolkata: At least six people were killed and another critically injured in a coal mine explosion in West Bengal’s Birbhum district on Monday.

The massive blast occurred at Gangaramchak Mining Private Limited Colliery (GMPL), under Lokpur Police station’s jurisdiction.

“6 bodies have been recovered. One is severely injured, his condition is serious, and two are out of danger,” West Bengal Chief Secretary Manoj Pant said.

West Bengal Police informed that the explosion occurred around 10.30 am in Lokpur’s Bhadulia block. A truck arrived at the site with a detonator for planned blasting activities. Suddenly, the detonator exploded.

“After the explosion in the mining area, we reached here and found six bodies, three people were injured who are undergoing treatment in the hospital, and the West Bengal government has announced jobs for the families. The company will also give compensation and the forensic team will investigate the reason behind this explosion,” Bolpur ASP Rana Mukherjee said.

The blast took place during coal-crushing operations, hence several workers were at the spot and got injured.

“The incident occurred in the dump yard of the coal block. An investigation has been initiated to ascertain the cause of the blast. Those killed in the explosion were workers of the agency deployed for mine operations. We are providing assistance to affected workers,” PTI quoted WBPDCL Chairman and Managing Director PB Salim as saying.

The state government announced Rs 30 lakh as compensation for the deceased’s family and Rs 2 lakh to the injured, informed chief secretary Pant. One member of the victims’ families will get a job, he added.