Dhanbad– Dhanbad witnessed a tragedy on Wednesday when a coal mine collapsed, losing three individuals. Suresh Kumar (12-year-old), his father Suresh Chandra and Uncle Ram Chandra were killed during an illicit mining activity at Nirsa block within Jharkhand district. The miners operated without personal protective equipment (PPE), and the mine was unrecognised by governmental authorities.
The accident highlights the dreadful hazards encountered in India’s unapproved mining industry. Sadly, this incident, among hundreds more, proves that fatalities caused by unsafe mines are too familiar in India.
While officials have implemented preventive measures against illegal coal extraction sites, stronger action must be taken concerning safety regulations.
The victims’ families demand compensation from authorities with calls for stricter penalties against those engaged with unauthorised mining procedures. Likewise, this disaster reiterates concerns for children working under exploitative conditions. Since they do not fully understand associated threats when appearing ignorant about potential dangers, their lives risk being endangered.
It remains vital for the government to adopt strict governance enforcing laws against child labour and invest in education and vocational training programs that offer better alternatives for young adults who may be tempted by dangerous living through such jobs. Illegal mining is a major problem in India. Up to 80% of coal mined in India is estimated to be extracted illegally. The government needs to increase enforcement of mining regulations and provide better safety training for miners.