Assam: Second Body Recovered From Umrangso Coal Mine

Guwahati: Rescue teams at the Umrangso coal mine in Assam's Dima Hasao district have recovered a second body, raising the death toll to two. The latest victim, identified as 27-year-old Lijen Magar, was a resident of Umrangso.

In response to the tragedy, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma offered his condolences. Addressing the situation on X, he said, “Rescue efforts in Umrangso continue with unwavering resolve. Tragically, another body was recovered this morning, with the identity yet to be confirmed. Our hearts go out to the grieving, as we hold onto hope and strength in this difficult time.”

Rescue operations for the remaining seven miners, trapped since January 6, are ongoing. Teams are working tirelessly to dewater the flooded mine and ensure safe access for rescuers.

The first body, recovered on January 8 by Army divers from the 21 Para Special Forces, was identified as Ganga Bahadur Srestho, a resident of Nepal's Udayapur district.

Addressing the incident, Chief Minister Sarma clarified that the mine had been declared abandoned 12 years ago, though it was not classified as illegal. The statement came amid questions regarding the mine’s operational status and safety measures.

Flooding within the mine has posed significant challenges for rescue efforts, with dewatering operations continuing around the clock.