A search and rescue operation after an explosion at an illegal coal mining site in Thangsk area, East Jaintia Hills district, Meghalaya, Friday, February 6, 2026. | Photo credit: PTI
The death toll from an explosion at an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills rose to 25 on Friday after the recovery of seven more bodies, Director General of Police I Nongrang said.
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The explosion occurred on Thursday (February 5, 2026) at a mine in the Thangsk region of Umsngat village, prompting authorities to launch a large-scale search and rescue operation involving several agencies. Eighteen bodies were found on Thursday.
“So far, seven more bodies have been found today, taking the total death toll to 25. Out of them, 12 bodies have been identified,” Ms Nongrang told PTI.
Search operations are continuing at the site as teams of the State Disaster Response Force, Special Rescue Team and National Disaster Response Force have been deployed. Medical teams and ambulances were also deployed, officials said.
“The search operation is still going on and we are making all efforts to find all the remaining victims and complete the identification process as soon as possible,” the DGP said.
Officials said the Army and Air Force remain on alert as the district administration and the State Disaster Management Authority continue to monitor the situation closely.
Published – 06 Feb 2026 19:40 IST
