Mining has long been one of the most hazardous professions, with workers facing risks from cave-ins, gas leaks, and sudden floods.
For those who descend daily into the earth’s depths, safety protocols can mean the difference between life and death.
Despite advancements in technology, accidents still occur, particularly in remote and under-resourced areas where response times can be delayed.
Such a tragedy unfolded in the Dima Hasao district of India’s Assam state on Monday when a coal mine unexpectedly flooded, trapping nine miners underground.
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Struck A Hidden Watersource
The incident occurred when the miners reportedly struck an underground water source, causing a deluge to engulf the shafts.
At the time of the flooding, as many as 20 miners were working inside, according to Tag24.
While some escaped, nine remain unaccounted for.
Rescue efforts began after a delayed response due to the mine's remote location.
Emergency teams equipped with specialized tools reached the site hours after the first distress calls.
Efforts to pump out the water started immediately, but the challenges are immense.
The water level in the mine has risen to an estimated 30 meters, making it difficult to locate or reach the trapped workers.
"The flooding came from within the mine," said Mayank Kumar, the district police chief.
"The miners likely struck a hidden water source, and the speed of the flooding left them with little time to react."
Divers from the Indian Navy, engineers, and soldiers from Assam Rifles are now assisting in the operation. Helicopters and other support systems have been deployed to aid the rescue.
By Tuesday morning, three bodies had been recovered from the mine. However, hopes of finding the remaining six miners alive are fading as time passes.
This disaster is a stark reminder of the dangers miners face. Similar tragedies have occurred globally.
In November 2023, 11 miners died in South Africa after a lift malfunctioned, and in 2024, 74 miners were trapped in a Polish mine collapse, resulting in one death.
