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Category: India
Miners trapped as a rat-hole coal mine floods
20 Jan 2025 – On the morning of January 6, when Babul Chandra Das from Tezpur, saw the news on TV, about an accident in a rat-hole mine near Umrangso in the Dima Hasao district of Assam, he became anxious. That’s where his wife’s elder brother Sanjit Sarkar, 35, had gone to work. Das and the rest of Sanjit’s family in Raichenga, a village in the Alipurduar district of West Bengal, tried contacting him over phone several times, in vain. Eventually, someone picked up the phone to deliver the fateful news – Sanjit was indeed trapped inside the mine, which was then engulfed by water.
About 15 km from Umrangso, an industrial town in Dima Hasao, is a small village called 3 Kilo. As the last known settlement and marketplace in the area, 3 Kilo serves as the starting point for a roughly two-hour drive along a rough, dusty jungle road to Kalamati, where Assam Coal Quarry — the site of the accident — is situated.
Das, along with Sanjit’s father Krishnapada Sarkar and father-in-law Anil Sarkar, reached the site on the evening of January 7. They are currently staying in the same room which Sanjit was sharing with Rajeev Barman (39), Khusi Mohan Rai (57) and Sarpa Barman (46), all of whom hailed from the Kokrajhar district of Assam. While Rajeev managed to escape the flooding mine, his other roommates were not so fortunate. Khusi Mohan’s body was recovered on January 11, while no traces of Sanjit and Sarpa have been found.
Sanjit’s father Krishnapada told Mongabay India that the family has lost hopes of seeing him alive. “Hopefully the rescue team will be able to recover his body” he said. Sanjit is survived by his parents, wife and a four-year-old son. Krishnapada also revealed that the family wasn’t aware that Sanjit was actually going to work inside the mines. “He told us that he won’t indulge in mining work but would drive vehicles and operate cranes. He knew that if he told the truth, we would never allow him to go,” he added.
This incident is one of the biggest mining disasters in Assam, which has highlighted the dangers of rat-hole mining, a practice involving digging narrow tunnels to extract coal where the miners need to crawl on hands and feet or lay flat to navigate. This unscientific form of sub-surface mining also takes place in parts of north-east India and has been banned for over a decade in the neighbouring state of Meghalaya.
Illegal rat-hole mining operations
Assam Coal Quarry is not the only rat-hole mine in this area. Chandra Tamang, who was working at a nearby mine at the time of the incident says that there might be more than 20 similar mines, potentially running illegal operations, in the area. “After this accident, work in all the mines stopped. Our contractor has also fled,” he said. The accident site is only a few kilometres away from Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district, where over six years ago, 15 miners were trapped in a flooded mine in Ksan.
According to recent data from the government, apart from Khusi Mohan, the bodies of three other miners, Ganga Bahadur Srestho (38) from Udayapur district in Nepal, Lijan Magar (26) from Umrangso, Dima Hasao and Sarat Goyari (37) from Sonitpur have been recovered. Sarpa, Hussain Ali (30), Jakir Hussain (38) and Mustafa Sheikh (44), all from Darrang, are also still missing at the time of publishing this article. Some local residents claim that the number of people who went missing inside the mine might be higher, as the government figure is based on the claim made by the missing miners’ families and acquaintances.
Rescue operations
On a regular work day, miners would go inside the mine at 4 a.m. for a seven to eight hours shift. On January 6, the miners descended to the mine at around 4.30 a.m. and after working for two hours, they encountered gushing water inside the 340-feet deep tunnel. Some miners escaped in time by either climbing a bamboo staircase or holding onto a trolley that carried them to the surface, while the rest remained trapped inside.
Professor Devesh Walia, Dean of the School of Human and Environmental Sciences, North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) told Mongabay India, “If the mining level goes below the level of water in the nearby Kopili river, then there are sufficient chances that water in the dam on Kopili will break and flood any of the mines. Looks like a lot of water from the dam site entered through the cracks underground and filled up the mine. Apart from facing the acidic water of Kopili, the miners trapped there are also encountering lack of oxygen and formation of methane gas inside the tunnel.” Studies and news articles have reported about the acidic nature of Kopili river and have linked it to unregulated coal mining.
The rescue operation at the accident site started on January 7, and agencies such as the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Coal India Ltd (CIL), Indian Army, Navy, Assam Rifles, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), and Fire and Emergency Services were deployed. Nine pumps are running to dewater the mines.
Inspector R. K. Singh, 1st Battalion of NDRF, talking about the rescue operation to Mongabay India, said, “A total of 35 men from NDRF are currently deployed here. We are finding it difficult to move around the tunnels due to insufficient space and lack of visibility. As these mines were illegal, we don’t have any maps or blueprints to help us.”
People working in other mines nearby have come to aid the rescue operation. Saidul Islam from Darrang said, “I worked in a mine in Meghalaya nearby. After hearing about this incident, I came to see if I can be of any assistance.” Islam informed that there are around 30 people like him who have come from mines in Meghalaya as well as Umrangso.
The 340-feet deep mine was initially filled with 100 feet of water. With round the clock dewatering, the water went down to 59 feet on January 11, but it again started increasing from the next day.
Admitting the difficulties in dewatering the mine, Assam chief minister (CM) Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “Somehow the mine is connected with the nearby Kopili river, because even after running our pumps for 36 hours, we are able to reduce just one foot of water. Geologists have started to survey the place and after they submit a report, we might be able to chalk out an alternative plan.”
Sarma, while initially declaring the mine as ‘prima facie an illegal mine’, later claimed that it was an abandoned mine earlier, legally operated by Assam Mineral Development Corporation (AMDC). However, he said that the activity which took place in the mine on January 6, was definitely illegal.
Kaushik Rai, Assam’s mines and mineral industries minister, who was overseeing the rescue operation on the site, told Mongabay India that there could be more such abandoned mines around the area.
Justice Brojendra Prasad Katakey, who headed the one-person commission constituted by the Meghalaya High Court to investigate rat-hole mining in Meghalaya in 2018, told Mongabay-India, “It is difficult for me to comment about this incident, because I have not been to Dima Hasao. However, if mining starts in an abandoned mine, permission will be needed under the Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation (MMDR) Act. It looks like in this case, this was not done, as safety protocols were not followed. In East Jaintia Hills district itself, there are 22,000 such abandoned mines. Mining is still continuing in some of them.”
In his report submitted to the Meghalaya government, Justice Katakey has recommended arranging alternate livelihood opportunities for the miners.
The human cost of illegal rat-hole mining
In 2014, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) banned rat-hole mining in Meghalaya on grounds of the practice being unscientific and unsafe for workers. However, even after a decade, the situation hasn’t changed much for the miners on the ground, in both Meghalaya and Assam.
Meghalaya-based social activist Agnes Kharshiing, reacting to the Umrangso incident, told Mongabay India, “There are many unreported deaths in these mines. The sardar (head of the labourers) brings labourers from other states or far off areas to work in the mines. This also amounts to human trafficking…The outside world has hardly any idea about what goes on here.”
Speaking about the harsh working conditions in these mines, Justice Katakey said, “Mining mainly takes place during the winter. In one of the mines we visited in Meghalaya, we found the miners living in small huts near a mine opening with tarpaulin sheets acting as roofs.”
A miner from Karbi Anglong district near Dima Hasao, on conditions of anonymity for safety reasons, recounted his experiences to Mongabay India. He said, “I have been working as a miner for 12 years and have worked in Meghalaya, Umrangso and also Ledo in Tinsukia. We generally go in groups of 10-12 people to look for work in mines and we are hired by sardars of different mines as per their requirement. In the mines, we are not given helmets or other safety gears. We carry our own pickaxes, shovels and a torch inside the mine. The thekedars (contractors) who pay us don’t keep any records of the people working in a mine. So, if any mishap happens inside a mine, it is not possible to accurately know how many people are inside.”
When asked why they keep working in such unsafe and hazardous conditions, he said, “We can earn around Rs. 1,500-2,000 a day working in a mine, which is almost double of what we get as daily wagers in cities and our villages. Also, as we don’t have much land, we can’t do agriculture either.”
Reflecting on the economics in these mines, Walia said, “The coal found in the Jaintia Hills/Umrangso belt is tertiary coal with a thin seam of two metres, which is not of the best quality. The tertiary coal is from a much recent in age. This coal has more sulfur and ash content. The seam of coal is important for deciding the type of mining taking place. However, even with this coal (lower quality), they can fill up 500-600 trucks daily, each with coal worth Rs. 70-80,000. This leads to huge profit and considering that, the amount they pay the miners is very less.”
The latest developments
The tragedy in Umrangso has another complex layer with two members of the Congress political party filing a complaint against Debolal Gorlosa, Chief Executive Member of Dima Hasao Autonomous Council and his wife Kanika Hojai, citing their involvement in the accident. However, CM Sarma, stated that those responsible for this mining disaster won’t be spared, and brushed off any involvement of Gorlosa and his wife in the matter.
On January 7, the police arrested Punish Nunisa, who was the leaseholder of the mine. On January 9, Hanan Laskar, the sardar of this mine was also arrested.
Nirmal Langthasa, a Congress leader from Dima Hasao, told Mongabay India that illegal rat-hole mining in Dima Hasao has become rampant from 2016. “Because of the NGT ban (on rat-hole mining) in Meghalaya, there was massive demand for coal, and rat-hole mining started outside AMDC demarcated areas such as Garampani and Kota Arda in Dima Hasao,” he said, insinuating fraud.
On January 16, following a cabinet meeting, Sarma briefed the media and announced that there will be a judicial enquiry and a probe by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on the Umrangso incident. The judicial probe will be headed by Justice Anima Hazarika, Judge (Retd.) of Gauhati High Courts. An ex-gratia of Rs. 10 lakhs will be paid to the families of the nine miners who went missing in the mine. Sarma stated that it will take 25 to 60 days to completely dewater the mine and that the rescue process will continue.
The Cabinet has also decided to frame a standard operating procedure regarding a blanket ban on rat-hole mining in the state. Satellite imagery helped track 220 more mines in the Umrangso area, which will be closed down, in consultation with central agencies.
Source:
www.india.mongabay.com
24 missing after avalanche hits village in Uttarakhand
February 28, 2025 – In a life-and-death race against time, teams from the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police are working to save 24 workers who are feared trapped beneath the ice after a devastating glacier avalanche hit a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) project site at Mana village in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district at around 5 a.m. on Friday
According to the Uttarakhand government, there were 57 civilian workers present at the affected site, where BRO construction work has been ongoing for the last two years.
Chamoli district’s Disaster Response Officer Nandkishore Joshi said that the workers had been sleeping inside a couple of containers when the avalanche hit their sheds. The victims include the construction workers as well as JCB drivers and other machine operators.
“There has been continuous snowfall in the area for the past 48 hours,” he said, adding that while many of the workers managed to run out of the sheds, a number of others are trapped under the mountain of ice that has covered the site.
Army Brigade Commander Mandeep Dhillon said that a dedicated rescue team — comprised of seven officers, 17 Junior Commissioned Officers (JCO), and 150 other personnel of the IBEX Brigade which is trained for rescue operations in the Himalayas — has been deployed in Mana village since 8 a.m. They are equipped with a specialised medical team and engineering equipment.
“Ten people have been rescued so far, who are under treatment by Army doctors. The operation remains ongoing, with all resources focussed on saving lives,” Brigadier Dhillon said. He added that 22 other workers were reported to be safe. Late on Friday night, the Uttarakhand government said that the whereabouts of one more worker was traced later in the evening.
The injured workers have been admitted to the army hospital in Mana, according to a statement from the State Disaster Response Force. The doctors have stitched up a couple of the rescued workers who suffered grievous injuries on their heads and other parts of the body.
Snowfall interrupts
rescue efforts
The rescue operations were forced to stop multiple times during the day due to the extreme weather conditions, with continuous snow and rainfall in the upper reaches of the Himalayas, including at Mana. The India Meteorological Department has issued an advisory on the snowfall and the possibility of further avalanches in mountainous districts, along with the precautionary measures to be taken. The State government also issued two helpline numbers which can be contacted by the kin of the trapped workers seeking information about the rescue, as the communication channels at the site remained non-functional due to the bad weather.
“Sad news was received about many workers being buried under an avalanche during the construction work being carried out by the BRO near Mana village in Chamoli district. Relief and rescue operations are being carried out by ITBP, BRO and other rescue teams. I pray to Lord Badri Vishal for the safety of all the labourer brothers,” Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said.
Describing it as a tragic incident, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that he has spoken to the CM and taken stock of the situation. Home Minister Amit Shah also assured the State government of all possible help in the rescue operation.
Source:
www.thehindu.com
30 dead, 90 injured in stampede at Maha Kumbh; Yogi Adityanath orders judicial inquiry
January 29, As many as 30 people died while 90 were left injured in a stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj early on Wednesday. The mishap occurred when devotees thronged to the Sangam area of the Maha Kumbh to take a holy dip on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya.
DIG Mahakumbh, Vaibhav Krishna, said, “30 people have lost their lives in the Maha Kumbh stampede that took place between 1-2 AM. 25 people have been identified and the identification of the remaining 5 is being done.”
The stampede forced Akharas to defer the holy dip on the auspicious day that witnessed around eight to ten crore pilgrims visiting Prayagraj. People broke open barricades to reach the location of the holy dip leading to some women fainting on the spot. The stampede began as the women fell unconscious with many of them being treated at the Bailey Hospital and Swaroop Rani Medical College currently. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, “A large number of devotees had gathered in Prayagraj since 7 PM yesterday to take a holy dip on Mauni Amavasya. An unfortunate incident took place on the Akhara Marg in which over 90 people were injured and 30 people died.” He added that the state government has ordered a judicial inquiry into the stampede.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences to the victims’ families and said the local administration in Prayagraj is giving all possible help to the victims and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. Later at a poll rally in Delhi, Modi said, “We lost some good souls in the tragic incident at Kumbh and some people have also got hurt. I convey my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and pray for the early recovery of those injured”.
“I am in constant touch with the Uttar Pradesh government. Due to ‘Mauni Amavasya’, crores of devotees have reached there. For sometime, the process of bathing had been halted, but now for several hours, the yatris are taking a bath. I once again convey my condolences to the families,” he said.The Uttar Pradesh government has assigned over 1,000 medical professionals to the Maha Kumbh area and equipped each sector of the fair with facilities for both minor and major surgeries, according to an official statement. Additionally, a super-specialty hospital in Mahakumbh Nagar houses 300 specialist doctors to manage emergency situations.
Source:
www.firstpost.com
Maharashtra blast: 8 killed, 7 injured in explosion at ordnance factory in Bhandara district
Jan 24, 2025 – Maharashtra blast: At least eight people were killed and seven others injured after a blast took place at the ordnance factory in the Jawahar Nagar area of Maharashtra’s Bhandara district on Friday morning. Rescue teams including firefighters and ambulances were deployed to the site. The explosion caused the roof of the factory to collapse and earthmovers were pressed into service to clear the debris. Union minister Nitin Gadkari called the explosion an unfortunate incident, confirming 8 deaths and 7 injuries.
“A sad incident has happened. At the ordnance factory in Bhandara, an explosion took place, causing the death of eight people and injuring seven others. This is the early report. I ask everyone to stand for a minute to honor them and then we will continue with the program,” said Gadkari at an event in Nagpur.
Union defence minister Rajnath Singh expressed sadness over the blast and offered condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for the quick recovery of the injured. Deeply saddened to know about the blast ot Ordnance Factory at Bhandara, Maharashtra. “My condolences to the bereaved families. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. The rescue teams are deployed at the site. All efforts are being made to provide assistance to those who are affected,” Rajnath Singh wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Source:
reuters
On July 30, 2024, at approximately 02:17 AM, a catastrophic landslide struck Mundakki, near Chooralmala in Vellarimala Village, Wayanad District, following continuous heavy to extremely severe rainfall. This disaster buried around 700 homes and businesses under tons of debris, leading to a devastating impact on the local community.
As of the latest reports from the State Emergency Operational Centre (SEOC) Kerala, a total of 231 bodies and 212 body parts have been recovered. The disaster has left 630 individuals injured, while 214 survivors were rescued, and approximately 119 individuals remain missing. The human cost of this tragedy is staggering, with 2,556 people affected and now seeking refuge in temporary shelters.
In the aftermath, all relief camps in Wayanad have been successfully dispersed. A total of 702 families have been relocated, comprising 943 males, 984 females, and 629 children, including 5 pregnant women. They have been placed in rented houses, government quarters, and with relatives, showcasing the collective resilience and adaptability of the community amid adversity.
The government’s response has been swift. A Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) was initiated on August 17, 2024, with experts convening to finalize their assessments by August 31, 2024. Financial support of 6,000 rupees has been allocated for rent to those displaced, alongside essential items such as furniture kits, kitchen kits, and hygiene kits being distributed to families. In an effort to provide immediate economic relief, the government plans to offer 300 rupees per day to unemployed members of affected families.
The humanitarian response has been multifaceted, with various organizations stepping up to assist in recovery efforts. The Tata Disaster Response Team has played a pivotal role, providing 200 single beds, essential hygiene supplies, and substantial food aid, including 1,500 kg of boiled rice. Their future focus includes restoring educational infrastructure and mental health support for long-term rehabilitation.
Organizations like the Family Planning Association of India (FPAI) are addressing reproductive health needs, while Humane Society International India has been active in rescuing and providing relief to animals affected by the landslide. The YMCA India has also contributed, ensuring the provision of furniture kits and medical assistance to the affected population.
With the ongoing coordination between government agencies and NGOs, efforts continue to mobilize resources effectively. The GO-NGO Coordination Desk is actively ensuring that updates on vendor resources and requirements are communicated efficiently, enabling a streamlined response.
As Wayanad begins to recover, the collective efforts of local communities, government agencies, and humanitarian organizations exemplify the spirit of resilience and solidarity in the face of disaster. The recovery process remains a testament to the strength of human compassion, as all stakeholders work tirelessly to rebuild lives and restore hope.
Source:
www.sphereindia.org.in
Catastrophic Flooding in Vijayawada: Lessons from the 2024 Disaster
In early September 2024, Vijayawada, a city in Andhra Pradesh, India, faced unprecedented flooding due to exceptionally heavy rainfall that commenced on August 31. This disaster claimed at least 35 lives in the NTR district and severely affected around 645,000 individuals across multiple districts, with approximately 270,000 impacted directly in Vijayawada alone. The city recorded over 29 cm of rainfall in just one day, overwhelming the Krishna River and the Budameru Rivulet, leading to catastrophic flooding that inflicted extensive damage on infrastructure, homes, and agricultural land.
The Budameru Rivulet is integral to draining water between the Godavari and Krishna Rivers into Kolleru Lake. Historically prone to overflowing, it had been equipped with a diversion canal intended to redirect its flow into the Krishna River from Velagaleru village, located 15 km from the city. However, during the rainfall event, the rivulet became overwhelmed, with inflows reaching an unprecedented 35,000 cusecs, far exceeding the diversion canal’s capacity of 7,000 cusecs. This resulted in significant flooding across Vijayawada, exacerbated by breaches in the Budameru Rivulet, which overwhelmed manmade barriers, inundating previously safeguarded areas.
The floods exposed serious vulnerabilities related to encroachments on natural water bodies and inadequate flood management infrastructure. The overflow of the Budameru Rivulet, combined with the already swollen Krishna River, inundated residential areas, particularly those built on floodplains. Key factors contributing to this disaster included the extreme rainfall, climate change impacts, and poor urban planning, which blocked natural water pathways.
The Krishna River experienced record inflows due to continuous heavy rainfall upstream, resulting in the Prakasam Barrage discharging 1.18 million cusecs of water, the highest in its 70-year history. Despite swift action from state officials to fortify vulnerable areas with sandbags, the floods led to widespread disruptions, including train cancellations and the evacuation of thousands.
On September 1, 2024, a significant incident occurred at the Prakasam Barrage when five boats collided with a critical gate, damaging its counterweight. This raised safety concerns and led to investigations into potential sabotage. The repairs were initiated promptly, underscoring the barrage’s essential role in flood management.
In the aftermath of the flooding, extensive relief and rescue operations were launched, with 190 relief camps established to shelter over 44,041 individuals. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) coordinated efforts, utilizing helicopters and drones to deliver essential supplies to affected communities.
Authorities also initiated restoration efforts for the Budameru Bund, which had suffered multiple breaches. A comprehensive plan, dubbed “Operation Budameru,” was launched to address encroachments and enhance the flood management infrastructure, including increasing the height of the Budameru Bund and expanding drainage capacities.
The devastation caused by the floods has highlighted the urgent need for improved flood management and urban planning strategies in Vijayawada. Encroachments along the Budameru Rivulet, which have reduced its carrying capacity, must be addressed. Experts recommend merging the original Budameru rivulet into the Krishna River to mitigate future risks and protect lives and livelihoods.
Furthermore, the government must prioritize modernization plans for the Budameru diversion channel, which has been neglected, leaving the region vulnerable to recurrent flooding. A comprehensive survey to identify and remove encroachments along the river will be essential in safeguarding against future disasters.
The 2024 floods in Vijayawada serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of inadequate flood management and urban planning. As the city and state authorities work toward recovery, it is crucial to implement sustainable solutions that prioritize community resilience and safeguard against similar catastrophic events in the future.
Source:
www.indiatoday.in
Catastrophe in Hathras: A Heart-Wrenching Crowd Crush at Religious Gathering
On July 2, 2024, a tragic incident unfolded in the small village of Mughal Garhi in the Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh, India, leaving the nation in mourning. A crowd crush occurred at the conclusion of a satsang, a religious event organized by a self-styled godman, Suraj Pal, also known as Bhole Baba. The event, which was intended to be a spiritual gathering, turned into a horrific tragedy, claiming the lives of 121 individuals, primarily women and children, while injuring at least 150 others. This disaster unfolded when an overwhelming number of 250,000 people showed up for the event, far exceeding the 80,000 attendees for which permission had been granted.
The Incident: Chaos and Desperation
As the satsang drew to a close, a frenzy broke out among the massive crowd. Attendees, eager to catch a final glimpse of Bhole Baba and even touch the ground he had walked on, surged toward the exit. Witnesses described a scene of utter chaos as people attempted to push through narrow exits in a desperate bid to leave the makeshift tent that had been erected in a muddy field. Panic ensued as a sudden dust storm swept through the area, triggering fear and confusion among the already overcrowded attendees.
The tent, pitched atop slippery terrain, became a deadly trap. Many individuals slipped and fell, only to be trampled by the overwhelming wave of people pushing to escape. Tragically, some attendees fell into a roadside drain during the commotion, while others suffocated amid the throng. The crush was exacerbated by the heat of the day and the shock of the sudden panic, leading to a rapidly escalating death toll as individuals became trapped and unable to breathe.
Victims of the Catastrophe
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the extent of the loss became painfully clear. Reports confirmed that among the deceased, at least 112 were women and seven were children. Many of the victims hailed from marginalized backgrounds, with a significant number belonging to the Dalit community, often considered the lowest caste in India’s rigid social hierarchy. The sheer scale of the tragedy has left the families of the deceased and injured grappling with grief, anger, and confusion in the wake of a disaster that should never have happened.
The medical response to the crisis was swift, with emergency services mobilizing to transport the injured to nearby hospitals. However, the sheer volume of casualties overwhelmed the local healthcare facilities, highlighting the inadequacies in emergency preparedness and response. Eyewitness accounts depict scenes of heartbreak and desperation as families searched for loved ones amid the chaos, praying for miracles amidst overwhelming sorrow.
The Aftermath: Government Response and Investigation
In the wake of this catastrophic event, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was deployed to assist with rescue and recovery efforts. Tragically, the toll on responders was compounded when a police officer collapsed from a heart attack during the rescue operations. Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, announced an ex-gratia compensation of ₹200,000 (approximately $2,400) for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 (approximately $600) for those injured. He also called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the disaster, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency.
Investigative efforts revealed a concerning lack of preparation and oversight leading up to the event. The Uttar Pradesh Police lodged a First Information Report (FIR) against the event organizers, noting that they had failed to adhere to safety protocols and regulations. The authorities pointed to a multitude of factors contributing to the crowd crush, including the excessive turnout that far exceeded the permitted capacity, inadequate exit routes, and a lack of crowd management protocols.
The Role of the
Organizer and Legal Consequences
Suraj Pal, the self-styled godman behind the event, reportedly fled to his ashram in Mainpuri district following the disaster. His lawyers claimed that he denied responsibility for the tragedy, suggesting that “anti-social elements” were to blame for the chaos. In a stark twist of fate, at least 11 individuals, including several of Pal’s aides and the chief organizer of the event, were arrested in connection with the disaster.
The authorities launched a comprehensive judicial inquiry to investigate the events that led to the catastrophic crush. As the investigation unfolded, several government and police officials were suspended for their negligent handling of the event. The inquiry panel criticized the lack of proper notification and oversight, asserting that a senior district official had permitted the event to proceed without conducting a thorough inspection of the venue.
A Call for Accountability and Change
The horrific events in Hathras serve as a painful reminder of the critical importance of preparedness and management at large public gatherings. Experts in disaster management have pointed to several systemic issues that contributed to the tragedy. Overcrowding emerged as a primary concern, with police reports indicating that the attendance exceeded permitted limits by over 170,000 people. This gross mismanagement raises questions about the efficacy of event planning and crowd control measures.
Moreover, the absence of adequate exits from the makeshift tent became a fatal flaw in the design of the event. Disaster management specialists have emphasized the need for well-marked, accessible exit routes at large gatherings to facilitate safe evacuation in emergencies. Typically, large-scale events should have multiple clearly defined exits, allowing for a swift and orderly evacuation if panic arises.
The slippery conditions caused by the muddy terrain further exacerbated the situation. Witnesses reported that the crowd’s movement became chaotic when the rain began, contributing to the injuries and deaths. This incident underscores the need for thorough risk assessments that take into account environmental factors and ensure appropriate measures are in place to mitigate hazards.
Governmental Oversight and the Role of Authorities
Critics have pointed to a troubling pattern in India’s approach to managing public gatherings, particularly those organized by private religious entities. Sanjay Srivastava, a disaster management expert, noted that government agencies responsible for public safety, including the police and emergency services, are often overruled by politicians who seek to curry favor with religious leaders and their followers. This political influence can result in dangerous oversights, as evidenced by the catastrophic consequences of the Hathras disaster.
As public outrage continues to simmer, calls for reform and accountability are mounting. Many citizens demand that government authorities prioritize safety over political expediency and ensure that adequate resources are allocated to managing large events effectively. The catastrophic events of July 2 serve as a clarion call for systemic change in the way public gatherings are organized and managed in India.
National Condolences and a Pledge for Change
The national shockwaves reverberating from the Hathras tragedy prompted expressions of condolence from various quarters, including President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Condolences poured in from international diplomats, including ambassadors from China, France, and Germany, highlighting the global resonance of the tragedy.
In the days following the disaster, Suraj Pal reiterated claims of a conspiracy surrounding the incident, maintaining that he was “deeply saddened” but also suggesting that the events were beyond his control. His denial of responsibility has only fueled further outrage among the public, who are grappling with the magnitude of the loss and the apparent lack of accountability from those in charge.
The Path Forward: Learning from Tragedy
As the dust settles on this devastating incident, it is essential for Indian authorities, event organizers, and society at large to reflect on the lessons learned from this tragedy. Moving forward, there must be a concerted effort to establish comprehensive guidelines and safety protocols for organizing large gatherings. These protocols should prioritize the safety and well-being of attendees, ensuring that no such tragedy occurs again.
Disaster preparedness training and capacity-building efforts for local authorities must be a cornerstone of these reforms. Investing in training programs that equip officials with the skills necessary to manage large crowds effectively is crucial for preventing future disasters. Additionally, public awareness campaigns educating citizens about safety protocols during large gatherings can empower individuals to make informed decisions in the face of emergencies.
A Nation in Mourning
The catastrophic crowd crush in Hathras stands as a heart-wrenching reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safeguarding public events. The deaths of 121 individuals, primarily women and children, in the pursuit of spiritual connection should not have happened. As India mourns the loss, it must also pledge to address the systemic failures that allowed this tragedy to unfold.
The time has come for meaningful change in how large gatherings are organized, managed, and regulated. Only through concerted efforts to prioritize safety, accountability, and preparedness can we hope to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. In the memory of those lost in Hathras, may we strive for a more compassionate and responsible approach to public gatherings, ensuring that spirituality is never overshadowed by catastrophe.
Source:
www.aljazeera.com
Tragedy Strikes Surat: Six-Storey Residential Building Collapses Amid Heavy Rains
On July 6, 2024, the outskirts of Surat, Gujarat, witnessed a heart-wrenching tragedy as a six-storey residential building crumbled under the relentless force of heavy rains, claiming the lives of seven individuals and leaving over 15 others injured. The incident, which occurred around 2:30 p.m. IST, has raised serious concerns about the structural integrity of buildings in the region, especially in the face of extreme weather conditions that have become increasingly frequent.
The ill-fated structure, located in the D N Nagar society of Sachin Pali village, was home to approximately 30 apartments, of which only five families were occupying the premises at the time of the collapse. Eyewitness accounts describe a scene of horror as large chunks of concrete and debris fell in a violent crash, leaving the community in shock. Rescue efforts were immediately mobilized, with local authorities and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) arriving on the scene to conduct search and rescue operations that extended into the following day.
The aftermath of the collapse revealed a chaotic and desperate situation. Rescue teams worked tirelessly, sifting through the rubble, using specialized equipment to locate and free individuals who were feared trapped beneath the debris. Horrifying visuals emerged from the scene, showing the remnants of the once-standing building, now reduced to a heap of crumbled concrete and twisted steel. Rescue workers shared chilling details about the sound of voices emanating from beneath the wreckage, heightening the urgency of their mission. By late evening, a woman was successfully rescued, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the despair, while officials continued to search for others.
As the search efforts unfolded, authorities began to investigate the circumstances leading to the disaster. It was revealed that the building had been constructed illegally in 2017, raising serious questions about the enforcement of building regulations in the region. The fact that this structure, built only eight years prior, was already deemed dilapidated is a stark reminder of the need for stringent oversight in the construction sector. In response to the tragedy, the owners of the building, along with an individual responsible for collecting rent, were booked under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, underscoring the legal ramifications of such negligence.
Dr. Saurabh Parghi, Surat’s District Collector, provided updates on the ongoing rescue operations, expressing cautious optimism about the potential for more survivors. “According to the woman we rescued, there could be four or five more people trapped inside. Teams from the NDRF and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are working tirelessly, and we remain hopeful of finding more survivors,” he stated. Surat’s Police Commissioner, Anupam Singh Gehlot, echoed this sentiment, affirming that the voices of those trapped were still audible, indicating that rescue operations were still viable.
The Surat building collapse is a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by urban areas, particularly in regions prone to heavy rainfall and flooding. As climate change continues to exacerbate weather patterns, the need for robust disaster preparedness measures and stringent enforcement of building codes has never been more critical. This tragedy not only highlights the immediate human cost of such disasters but also serves as a call to action for local authorities to prioritize infrastructure safety and ensure that buildings are constructed and maintained to withstand the forces of nature.
In the wake of this devastating incident, the community is left to mourn the loss of lives and grapple with the reality of a disaster that struck so suddenly. As rescue operations come to a close, attention must turn to accountability and the necessary steps to prevent such tragedies from recurring. Investigations into the collapse are expected to reveal systemic failures that contributed to this catastrophe, sparking discussions around regulatory reforms and the importance of community engagement in disaster risk reduction.
The residents of Surat deserve a thorough investigation, accountability for those responsible, and the assurance that measures will be put in place to safeguard against future disasters. As the city begins to heal from this traumatic event, it must also fortify its resilience against the inevitable challenges posed by an increasingly unpredictable climate.
Source:
www.ndtv.com
Tragedy Strikes: Atchutapuram Pharmaceutical Factory Explosion Claims Lives and Raises Safety Concerns
On August 21, 2024, the tranquil afternoon at the Escientia Advanced Sciences pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Atchutapuram Special Economic Zone (SEZ), located in Anakapalli district, Andhra Pradesh, was shattered by a catastrophic explosion. The incident occurred around 2:15 p.m. IST, reportedly triggered by an electrical fire. The aftermath of this devastating explosion has left at least 18 individuals dead and over 50 injured, with many suffering from severe chemical burns. The tragedy has not only sparked widespread sorrow but also ignited urgent discussions about safety protocols within the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector in India.
The Escientia Advanced Sciences facility, which was established with a substantial investment of ₹200 crore, spans a 40-acre campus under the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation. This factory specializes in manufacturing active pharmaceutical ingredients and intermediary products, employing around 400 workers who operate in two shifts. On the fateful day of the explosion, many workers had just returned from their lunch break, allowing for a reduced presence that potentially saved numerous lives. However, the toll was still significant, as at least 18 lives were lost amidst the chaos, and 41 workers were reported injured, with several suffering from life-threatening burns.
Witnesses reported a terrifying scene as thick plumes of smoke engulfed the facility, hindering rescue operations. The loud explosion sent shockwaves through the local community, causing panic among nearby residents. Anakapalli’s Superintendent of Police, M. Deepika, noted that several workers were trapped under debris from the collapsed structure, further complicating the rescue efforts. Fire brigades were quickly dispatched to the site, with eight large fire engines arriving to battle the flames, soon joined by additional units. Their efforts were hampered by the intense heat and smoke, which engulfed the entire area surrounding the factory.
State Labor Minister Vasamsetty Subhash confirmed the tragic death toll, stating that ten of the deceased had been identified, including key personnel such as the assistant general manager, V. Sanyasi Naidu, and several production operators and chemists. With rescue operations still underway, local authorities faced the daunting task of identifying the remaining victims amidst the wreckage. Anakapalli District Collector Vijaya Krishnan emphasized the urgency of the situation, indicating that more victims could still be trapped within the ruins of the factory.
The explosion not only raises immediate concerns about the safety measures in place at the Escientia facility but also highlights a troubling pattern of industrial accidents in the region. Just a month prior, a similar explosion at Vasanth Chemicals resulted in the death of a worker and injuries to two others. Moreover, in June 2023, another explosion at Sahiti Pharma claimed the lives of six individuals. These incidents have brought to light the pressing need for a thorough review of safety regulations and enforcement in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed profound shock at the loss of life and directed authorities to prioritize rescue efforts. He assured the families of the deceased that the government would provide support and assistance in this challenging time. The recurring nature of such industrial disasters raises alarming questions about the accountability of companies and the efficacy of regulatory oversight in ensuring worker safety.
As the community mourns the loss of life and grapples with the aftermath of this disaster, the need for stringent safety protocols and comprehensive emergency response plans in industrial settings cannot be overstated. The Atchutapuram explosion serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the imperative to safeguard the well-being of workers in high-risk environments. In the wake of this tragedy, a collective effort must be made to enhance safety standards, protect lives, and prevent such catastrophic incidents from recurring in the future.
Source:
www.hindustantimes.com
Cyclone Asna: A Catastrophic Force of Nature
Cyclone Asna emerged as a formidable tropical cyclone, impacting the states of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh in India from August 25 to September 2, 2024. This rare meteorological event began as a low-pressure system in the northwest Bay of Bengal around August 16, gathering momentum as it moved inland. By August 26, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed the transformation of this depression into a deep cyclone over Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, setting the stage for a catastrophic sequence of events that would forever change the lives of many.
The cyclone’s wrath was felt most intensely in Gujarat, where torrential downpours led to widespread flooding. Over the course of its assault, Cyclone Asna unleashed up to 260 mm of rain in Vadodara and 120 mm in Ahmedabad within a mere two-day period. The heavy rainfall resulted in rivers breaching their banks, with the Vishwamitri River rapidly rising and flooding nearby areas. As of September 3, Gujarat had recorded an alarming 118% of its seasonal rainfall, with the Kutch region experiencing a staggering 180% increase. The consequences were devastating: 49 lives were lost, and extensive damage to infrastructure and agricultural lands ensued.
The devastation extended beyond human casualties. The flooding resulted in the destruction of thousands of homes and businesses, leaving a significant portion of the population vulnerable and displaced. Reports indicated that approximately 6,931 villages and 17 cities suffered power outages, affecting the daily lives of millions. A staggering 4,173 km of road infrastructure sustained damage, while the collapse of a crucial bridge between Bodeli and Chhota Udepur on the national highway halted vital transportation routes.
In response to the disaster, the National Disaster Response Force, alongside state authorities, mobilized 17 teams to aid in relief and rescue efforts. Their operations were pivotal in relocating over 42,000 individuals to safety, showcasing a coordinated effort to mitigate the impact of this natural calamity. Emergency measures included airlifting 53 individuals trapped in isolated regions, as local authorities scrambled to provide shelter and resources for the affected population.
Despite the valiant rescue efforts, the aftermath of Cyclone Asna left behind a stark reminder of the increasing severity of extreme weather events in the region. The storm’s effects were exacerbated by previous rains, which had saturated the soil and primed the landscape for flooding. Scientists at the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar highlighted the correlation between urban development, changes in elevation, and disrupted drainage systems, attributing the flooding to both natural and man-made factors.
As the state government conducted damage assessments, initial reports indicated financial losses surpassing ₹250 crore (approximately $30 million) due to damage to public infrastructure and properties. The government committed to providing compensation to the families of the deceased, ensuring that affected communities received immediate financial assistance to help them navigate the crisis.
The human toll was not the only concern. The flooding devastated livestock, with reports indicating the loss of over 2,600 animals. Agricultural sectors in districts of Kutch and Saurashtra faced significant destruction, raising concerns about food security and economic recovery in the region. As the waters receded, local authorities began to address the daunting task of reconstruction, emphasizing the need for resilience-building measures to withstand future disasters.
As Cyclone Asna moved away from the Indian coast, it served as a grim reminder of the climate crisis and its implications for vulnerable regions. The storm’s unprecedented development and intensity left communities grappling with the harsh reality of climate change, urging both governmental and non-governmental organizations to prioritize disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience. As families begin to rebuild their lives, the lessons learned from Cyclone Asna must be a call to action for stronger environmental policies and adaptive strategies in the face of increasingly severe weather events. The long-term implications of this disaster will resonate for years to come, marking a pivotal moment in India’s ongoing battle against the forces of nature.
Source:
www.livemint.com