7 killed, several injured in explosion at coal mine in Bengal's Birbhum

An explosion at the Gangaramchak Mining Private Limited colliery in Birbhum district, West Bengal, has resulted in at least seven fatalities and numerous injuries. The incident occurred on Monday in the Lokpur area, during coal extraction operations. Eyewitnesses reported that workers were engaged in blasting activities when the explosion took place, leading to a chaotic scene.

After the blast, workers and senior officials at the site scrambled to safety as debris and smoke engulfed the area. Disturbing visuals from the scene showed bodies lying on the ground and vehicles damaged by the force of the explosion. Local authorities quickly responded to the emergency, with police and rescue teams arriving at the scene to evacuate the injured. Those affected were promptly transported to a nearby medical facility for urgent care.

In a related incident, on Sunday, a roof collapse at another coal mine in Kulti, West Bengal, trapped several individuals engaged in illegal mining. This site, owned by Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), has been criticized for unsafe practices. Authorities have confirmed that those trapped were working without official permission, and rescue operations are currently underway.

Local officials, including a BJP MLA, have been present at the site of the Gangaramchak explosion, overseeing rescue efforts and supporting the families of the victims. The police are also in the process of notifying the families of those who lost their lives and are injured.