The Indian Navy on Sunday detected a skeleton, possibly of another missing miner, trapped deep inside the 370-feet-deep coal mine in Meghalaya's 
East Jaintia Hills district, officials said.

At least 15 miners were trapped after water from the nearby Lytein river gushed into the illegal rat-hole mine in Lumthari village in the Ksan area on December 13 last year.

Two decomposed bodies were spotted earlier and out of them only one body could be recovered, the officials said.

On Sunday the rescue operations, the longest in the country, continued for the 74th day.

The Army has also joined the rescue operations along with the Navy, the NDRF and other agencies.

"The underwater ROV of the Indian Navy on Sunday detected skeletons of the third miner deep inside the coal mine. Efforts are on to retrieve it," a senior district official told PTI.

He said the skeletal remains were detected over 150 feet away from the bottom of the 370-feet-deep vertical mine shaft where the miners have been trapped.

Operation spokesperson R Susngi said the "completely" decomposed body was detected and efforts are on to retrieve it.

The second body was detected last month and it had slipped away from the jaws of the ROV. That body is yet to be located.

Only one body could be retrieved till date, he said.

The process of dewatering the mine is also on with three different organisations such as the Coal India Ltd, Kirloskar Brothers Ltd and KSB, discharging over 1 crore litres of water in a span of 24 hours, he said.

The Supreme Court is monitoring the operation closely and the matter will come up for hearing on Monday.

The state government has paid Rs 1 lakh interim relief to the family members of each of the victims.

Home Minister James K Sangma had said the operations to search for the miners will continue as per orders of the Supreme Court.

He also said the government is yet to get details of the expenses incurred in the operations which involved mostly dewatering of the mine.&nbsp;

The Indian Navy on Sunday detected a skeleton, possibly of another missing miner, trapped deep inside the 370-feet-deep coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district, officials said.

The Indian Navy on Sunday detected a skeleton, possibly of another missing miner, trapped deep inside the 370-feet-deep coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district, officials said. At least 15 miners were trapped after water from the nearby Lytein river gushed into the illegal rat-hole mine in Lumthari village in the Ksan area on December 13 last year. Two decomposed bodies were spotted earlier and out of them only one body could be recovered, the officials said. On Sunday the rescue operations, the longest in the country, continued for the 74th day. The Army has also joined the rescue operations along with the Navy, the NDRF and other agencies. "The underwater ROV of the Indian Navy on Sunday detected skeletons of the third miner deep inside the coal mine. Efforts are on to retrieve it," a senior district official told PTI. He said the skeletal remains were detected over 150 feet away from the bottom of the 370-feet-deep vertical mine shaft where the miners have been trapped. Operation spokesperson R Susngi said the "completely" decomposed body was detected and efforts are on to retrieve it. The second body was detected last month and it had slipped away from the jaws of the ROV. That body is yet to be located. Only one body could be retrieved till date, he said. The process of dewatering the mine is also on with three different organisations such as the Coal India Ltd, Kirloskar Brothers Ltd and KSB, discharging over 1 crore litres of water in a span of 24 hours, he said. The Supreme Court is monitoring the operation closely and the matter will come up for hearing on Monday. The state government has paid Rs 1 lakh interim relief to the family members of each of the victims. Home Minister James K Sangma had said the operations to search for the miners will continue as per orders of the Supreme Court. He also said the government is yet to get details of the expenses incurred in the operations which involved mostly dewatering of the mine.

Meghalaya mine tragedy: Skeleton of third trapped miner spotted

The Supreme Court will on Tuesday hear a PIL seeking continuation of the efforts to rescue miners trapped in an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district for the past almost two months.

A bench headed by Justice AK Sikri on Monday said that “it seems to be certain that nobody is alive”.On January 28, the court had asked the Centre and the Meghalaya government to continue their efforts to rescue the miners.

On January 27, Navy divers recovered a second body from the flooded rat-hole coal mine in the state where the miners have been trapped since December 13 last year.

According to the Navy officials, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-mine-rescue-second-body-detected-by-navy-divers-192930">second body was detected 280 feet inside the mine in East Jaintia Hills</a> by its diving team. The first body was found on January 26.

15 miners were trapped in the illegal mine in Lumthari village when water from the nearby Lytein river flooded the mine. Since then, a multi-agency rescue operation has been underway to evacuate the miners.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court will on Tuesday hear a PIL seeking continuation of the efforts to rescue miners trapped in an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district for the past almost two months.

The Supreme Court will on Tuesday hear a PIL seeking continuation of the efforts to rescue miners trapped in an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district for the past almost two months. A bench headed by Justice AK Sikri on Monday said that “it seems to be certain that nobody is alive”.On January 28, the court had asked the Centre and the Meghalaya government to continue their efforts to rescue the miners. On January 27, Navy divers recovered a second body from the flooded rat-hole coal mine in the state where the miners have been trapped since December 13 last year. According to the Navy officials, the second body was detected 280 feet inside the mine in East Jaintia Hills by its diving team. The first body was found on January 26. 15 miners were trapped in the illegal mine in Lumthari village when water from the nearby Lytein river flooded the mine. Since then, a multi-agency rescue operation has been underway to evacuate the miners.

Supreme Court to hear PIL on rescue efforts for trapped miners in Meghalaya on Tuesday

Two days after the Indian Navy’s underwater remotely operated vehicle (UROV) spotted the body of a second miner at 280ft inside the rat hole mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district, a platoon of the army was deployed in the search operations on Tuesday.

“The army is setting up a camp near the site to assist Navy in miners rescue operations. This is only administrative support to Navy for efficient, smooth and round the clock operations in case need be,” said an official involved in the search operations.

Sources reveal that Army will not be directly involved in conducting the search operations but will only provide logistical and administrative support to the Indian Navy, Odisha Fire Services Department officials and NDRF who are primarily conducting the search operations.

This decision comes in the wake of the Indian Navy’s ROV (remotely operated vehicle) spotting the body of a second miner on January 26, however, the body could not be retrieved despite efforts in the last two days.

Today, the Indian Navy and other agencies will begin search operations again with the help of Army at the site.&nbsp;

The first body of a miner was retrieved 42 days after they were trapped inside the mine.&nbsp;

On December 13, as many as 15 miners were trapped inside the 370-feet deep rat-hole mine after water from the nearby Lytein river flooded it.

Indian Navy, NDRF, Odisha Fire Services Department and Meghalaya government’s disaster management group were pressed into the rescue operations.&nbsp;

However, it took a month for the high powered pumps from Coal India and Kirloskar Brothers to arrive at the spot and engage in the rescue operations.

Two days after the Indian Navy’s underwater remotely operated vehicle (UROV) spotted the body of a second miner at 280ft inside the rat hole mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district, a platoon of the army was deployed in the search operations on Tuesday.

Two days after the Indian Navy’s underwater remotely operated vehicle (UROV) spotted the body of a second miner at 280ft inside the rat hole mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district, a platoon of the army was deployed in the search operations on Tuesday. “The army is setting up a camp near the site to assist Navy in miners rescue operations. This is only administrative support to Navy for efficient, smooth and round the clock operations in case need be,” said an official involved in the search operations. Sources reveal that Army will not be directly involved in conducting the search operations but will only provide logistical and administrative support to the Indian Navy, Odisha Fire Services Department officials and NDRF who are primarily conducting the search operations. This decision comes in the wake of the Indian Navy’s ROV (remotely operated vehicle) spotting the body of a second miner on January 26, however, the body could not be retrieved despite efforts in the last two days. Today, the Indian Navy and other agencies will begin search operations again with the help of Army at the site. The first body of a miner was retrieved 42 days after they were trapped inside the mine. On December 13, as many as 15 miners were trapped inside the 370-feet deep rat-hole mine after water from the nearby Lytein river flooded it. Indian Navy, NDRF, Odisha Fire Services Department and Meghalaya government’s disaster management group were pressed into the rescue operations. However, it took a month for the high powered pumps from Coal India and Kirloskar Brothers to arrive at the spot and engage in the rescue operations.

Meghalaya mine tragedy: Army joins search operations to find missing miners

The Supreme Court was informed Monday that the body of a person, among the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-miners-body-pulled-out-42-days-after-15-workers-were-trapped-192508">15 miners trapped</a> for over a month inside a flooded illegal coal mine in Meghalaya, has been retrieved while<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-mine-rescue-second-body-detected-by-navy-divers-192930"> another body has been spotted</a> by the Indian Navy. 
 
A bench of Justices A K Sikri and S Abdul Nazeer was told by the lawyer appearing for the petitioner who has filed public interest litigation (PIL) seeking urgent steps for rescuing the miners trapped in the rat-hole mine since December 13 last year, that its de-watering was necessary to retrieve the bodies.

The Centre told the apex court that a body was recovered on January 24 during the rescue operation and on January 26, the Navy personnel spotted the second body at about 280 feet.

"Search for balance survivors/mortal remains is in progress," the Centre said in its report detailing the status of action taken by the authorities. 
Senior advocate Anand Grover, appearing for petitioner Aditya N Prasad, said that 14 to 15 high-powered water pumps were required to de-water the mines.

"Without de-watering the mines, they (authorities) cannot have access to the bodies," he said, adding that equipments of the Indian Army were needed in the rescue operation.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, told the bench that Army personnel were already involved in rescue operation along with officials of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Indian Navy and other agencies.

He said the suggestions given by Grover on the ongoing rescue operation would be duly considered by the authorities.

The bench has posted the matter for further hearing on February 4.

The illegal mine is located at Ksan in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district, about 3.7 km deep inside a forest and can be accessed after crossing three streams. It was flooded when water from the nearby Letein river gushed into it.

Rat-hole mining involves digging of narrow tunnels, usually three-four feet high, for workers to enter and extract coal. The horizontal tunnels are often termed "rat holes" as each just about fits one person.

In its status report filed in the top court, the Centre said that crores of litres of water has been pumped out from the mine and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) of the Indian Navy were already working in the rescue operation.

"Underground ROVs being operated in adjacent mines, systematically searching and sanitising them one by one. So far, two adjacent mines have been searched and declared clear," the report said.

It said Indian Air Force aircraft were also deployed for a rescue operation.

The status report said that Meghalaya government is undertaking search and rescue operations and the Centre is supplementing the efforts by providing all necessary logistic support.

Last week, the state government had told the top court that on January 16, the ROV of Indian Navy had detected a body at a depth of 210 feet in the flooded mine and efforts were being made to retrieve it but could not be completed as the body parts started disintegrating.

On January 11, the Centre had told the court that it has to "believe in miracles" for the 15 miners to come out alive.

The apex court had earlier expressed dissatisfaction over the steps taken by Meghalaya government to rescue these miners and had said "prompt, immediate and effective" operation was needed to rescue them as it was a matter of life and death.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court was informed Monday that the body of a person, among the 15 miners trapped for over a month inside a flooded illegal coal mine in Meghalaya, has been retrieved while another body has been spotted by the Indian Navy.

The Supreme Court was informed Monday that the body of a person, among the 15 miners trapped for over a month inside a flooded illegal coal mine in Meghalaya, has been retrieved while another body has been spotted by the Indian Navy. A bench of Justices A K Sikri and S Abdul Nazeer was told by the lawyer appearing for the petitioner who has filed public interest litigation (PIL) seeking urgent steps for rescuing the miners trapped in the rat-hole mine since December 13 last year, that its de-watering was necessary to retrieve the bodies. The Centre told the apex court that a body was recovered on January 24 during the rescue operation and on January 26, the Navy personnel spotted the second body at about 280 feet. "Search for balance survivors/mortal remains is in progress," the Centre said in its report detailing the status of action taken by the authorities. Senior advocate Anand Grover, appearing for petitioner Aditya N Prasad, said that 14 to 15 high-powered water pumps were required to de-water the mines. "Without de-watering the mines, they (authorities) cannot have access to the bodies," he said, adding that equipments of the Indian Army were needed in the rescue operation. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, told the bench that Army personnel were already involved in rescue operation along with officials of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Indian Navy and other agencies. He said the suggestions given by Grover on the ongoing rescue operation would be duly considered by the authorities. The bench has posted the matter for further hearing on February 4. The illegal mine is located at Ksan in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district, about 3.7 km deep inside a forest and can be accessed after crossing three streams. It was flooded when water from the nearby Letein river gushed into it. Rat-hole mining involves digging of narrow tunnels, usually three-four feet high, for workers to enter and extract coal. The horizontal tunnels are often termed "rat holes" as each just about fits one person. In its status report filed in the top court, the Centre said that crores of litres of water has been pumped out from the mine and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) of the Indian Navy were already working in the rescue operation. "Underground ROVs being operated in adjacent mines, systematically searching and sanitising them one by one. So far, two adjacent mines have been searched and declared clear," the report said. It said Indian Air Force aircraft were also deployed for a rescue operation. The status report said that Meghalaya government is undertaking search and rescue operations and the Centre is supplementing the efforts by providing all necessary logistic support. Last week, the state government had told the top court that on January 16, the ROV of Indian Navy had detected a body at a depth of 210 feet in the flooded mine and efforts were being made to retrieve it but could not be completed as the body parts started disintegrating. On January 11, the Centre had told the court that it has to "believe in miracles" for the 15 miners to come out alive. The apex court had earlier expressed dissatisfaction over the steps taken by Meghalaya government to rescue these miners and had said "prompt, immediate and effective" operation was needed to rescue them as it was a matter of life and death.

Meghalaya miners: One body retrieved, another spotted in illegal mine, Centre informs Supreme Court

A team of Indian Navy divers has detected a second body at the depth of 280-feet inside the mine in Meghalaya, a Navy spokesperson told news agency ANI.&nbsp;

The first body, one of the 15 trapped miners, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-miners-body-pulled-out-42-days-after-15-workers-were-trapped-192508">was retrieved earlier this week</a> after a struggle of over 40 days.&nbsp;

The body was retrieved from a 370-foot deep coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district and has been identified as Amir Hussain of Assam's Chirang district, news agency PTI reported on Friday. The body was identified by his wife and mother who arrived in Khliehriat, the district headquarters, earlier on Friday.

In a joint operation, the Indian Navy and the National Disaster Response Force pulled the body out of the mine's shaft on Thursday, nine days after it was spotted.

"The body retrieved yesterday from Ksan has been identified as Amir Hussain of Chirang district in Assam," East Jaintia Hills District Deputy Commissioner FM Dopth said.

As many as 15 miners got trapped in a rat-hole mine in East Jantia Hills of Meghalaya on December 13.&nbsp;

The owner of the mine, Krip Chullet, was arrested from his home on December 14. His accomplices are on the run, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

The Meghalaya government has released Rs 1 lakh interim relief for the families of the trapped miners.

The Supreme Court is monitoring the rescue mission and the matter will come up for a hearing next Monday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

A team of Indian Navy divers has detected a second body at the depth of 280-feet inside the mine in Meghalaya, a Navy spokesperson told news agency ANI. The first body, one of the 15 trapped miners, was retrieved earlier this week after a struggle of over 40 days.

A team of Indian Navy divers has detected a second body at the depth of 280-feet inside the mine in Meghalaya, a Navy spokesperson told news agency ANI. The first body, one of the 15 trapped miners, was retrieved earlier this week after a struggle of over 40 days. The body was retrieved from a 370-foot deep coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district and has been identified as Amir Hussain of Assam's Chirang district, news agency PTI reported on Friday. The body was identified by his wife and mother who arrived in Khliehriat, the district headquarters, earlier on Friday. In a joint operation, the Indian Navy and the National Disaster Response Force pulled the body out of the mine's shaft on Thursday, nine days after it was spotted. "The body retrieved yesterday from Ksan has been identified as Amir Hussain of Chirang district in Assam," East Jaintia Hills District Deputy Commissioner FM Dopth said. As many as 15 miners got trapped in a rat-hole mine in East Jantia Hills of Meghalaya on December 13. The owner of the mine, Krip Chullet, was arrested from his home on December 14. His accomplices are on the run, news agency PTI reported. The Meghalaya government has released Rs 1 lakh interim relief for the families of the trapped miners. The Supreme Court is monitoring the rescue mission and the matter will come up for a hearing next Monday. (With inputs from PTI)

Meghalaya mine rescue: Second body detected by Navy divers

The Indian Navy Tuesday resumed its operation to retrieve the decomposed body of one of the trapped miners detected inside a 370-feet deep illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district but failed to achieve success.

Navy divers, who had <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/navy-abandons-efforts-to-pull-out-decomposed-body-of-miner-191659">suspended their operation on Sunday</a> on the advice of the district administration, along with NDRF personnel, used remotely operated vehicles.

After day-long efforts, they only managed to move the body a few metres from where it was left on Sunday and brought it near the bottom of the main shaft, officials said.

"The body has been pulled near the bottom of the main shaft... The process to bring the body to the top will take some more time due to the presence of some obstructions inside the mine," spokesperson of the operation R Susngi said.

Efforts to retrieve the body would continue Wednesday, he added.

The Navy personnel had earlier managed to pull the body, seen 200 ft along the horizontally dug small hole, about halfway to the bottom of the shaft. But, it could not be brought out due to apprehension that further moving it could result in its disintegration, Susngi said.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma was briefed on the development at the site and he is constantly monitoring the situation, a senior home official said.

The district authorities are waiting for the family members of at least seven miners trapped inside to identify the retrieved body, he said.

At least 15 miners are trapped in the rat hole mine at Khlooryngksan area of the district since December 13 which has led to a multi-agency operation involving the Navy, the NDRF and leading firms in the country to join the efforts to rescue them in the longest such mission in the country.

Close on heels of Navy's Sunday decision, Conrad had on Monday suspended operations to retrieve the body to avoid disintegration of the decomposed corpse.

The Navy had also spotted several skeletons in the flooded mines.

Coal India Ltd, Odhisa Fire Service and the KSP continued dewatering the nearby abandoned mines and the total discharge of water since yesterday was 80.15 lakh litres, Susngi said.

The Indian Navy Tuesday resumed its operation to retrieve the decomposed body of one of the trapped miners detected inside a 370-feet deep illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district but failed to achieve success.

The Indian Navy Tuesday resumed its operation to retrieve the decomposed body of one of the trapped miners detected inside a 370-feet deep illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district but failed to achieve success. Navy divers, who had suspended their operation on Sunday on the advice of the district administration, along with NDRF personnel, used remotely operated vehicles. After day-long efforts, they only managed to move the body a few metres from where it was left on Sunday and brought it near the bottom of the main shaft, officials said. "The body has been pulled near the bottom of the main shaft... The process to bring the body to the top will take some more time due to the presence of some obstructions inside the mine," spokesperson of the operation R Susngi said. Efforts to retrieve the body would continue Wednesday, he added. The Navy personnel had earlier managed to pull the body, seen 200 ft along the horizontally dug small hole, about halfway to the bottom of the shaft. But, it could not be brought out due to apprehension that further moving it could result in its disintegration, Susngi said. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma was briefed on the development at the site and he is constantly monitoring the situation, a senior home official said. The district authorities are waiting for the family members of at least seven miners trapped inside to identify the retrieved body, he said. At least 15 miners are trapped in the rat hole mine at Khlooryngksan area of the district since December 13 which has led to a multi-agency operation involving the Navy, the NDRF and leading firms in the country to join the efforts to rescue them in the longest such mission in the country. Close on heels of Navy's Sunday decision, Conrad had on Monday suspended operations to retrieve the body to avoid disintegration of the decomposed corpse. The Navy had also spotted several skeletons in the flooded mines. Coal India Ltd, Odhisa Fire Service and the KSP continued dewatering the nearby abandoned mines and the total discharge of water since yesterday was 80.15 lakh litres, Susngi said.

Meghalaya: Navy resumes operation to retrieve trapped miner's body, not successful

The Northeastern states&nbsp;Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura are celebrating their statehood day today.

The three states were recognised as full-fledged states in 1971 under the North Eastern Region (Reorganisation) Act.

Extending his wishes to the people of the three states, Prime Minister Modi tweeted on Monday, "On the special occasion of their Statehood Day, greetings to the people of Meghalaya. 
People from Meghalaya have made a notable contribution to our country. I pray for the state’s continuous progress".

"Manipur is blessed with immense natural beauty and hardworking citizens. I can never forget the affection I have got in the state.&nbsp; 
On their Statehood Day, I greet my sisters and brothers of Manipur.&nbsp; 
May the state continue scaling new heights of development."

"Statehood Day greetings to the people of Tripura. In less than a year, the state has made remarkable progress. It is realising it’s true potential and people’s aspirations are being fulfilled at a record pace. May this spirit grow further in the coming years".

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Manipur is blessed with immense natural beauty and hardworking citizens. I can never forget the affection I have got in the state. 
 
On their Statehood Day, I greet my sisters and brothers of Manipur. 
 
May the state continue scaling new heights of development.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1087188465480093696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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President Ram Nath Kovind and the chief ministers of the respective states also greeted the people&nbsp;for their statehood day.

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Greetings to the people of Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura on statehood day. My best wishes to these states for a bright and prosperous future <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentKovind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentKovind</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1087163198594113537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Greetings to my beloved brothers &amp; sisters on the occasion of Statehood Day of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tripura?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tripura</a>. 
 
Let us reaffirm our commitment to work for comprehensive development of our state. 
 
With blessings of Ma Tripureswari, we shall attain our vision of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TransformingTripura?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TransformingTripura</a> into a Model State. <a href="https://t.co/TWjR0R70cG">pic.twitter.com/TWjR0R70cG</a>
— Biplab Kumar Deb (@BjpBiplab) <a href="https://twitter.com/BjpBiplab/status/1087169123321139201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On the occasion of the 47th Statehood, let us rededicate ourselves to the values with which our beloved State was formed &amp; reaffirm our commitment to work for the people. On this happy day, I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to the people of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Meghalaya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Meghalaya</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a>
— Conrad Sangma (@SangmaConrad) <a href="https://twitter.com/SangmaConrad/status/1087135466074173441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Northeastern states Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura are celebrating their statehood day today. The three states were recognised as full-fledged states in 1971 under the North Eastern Region (Reorganisation) Act.

The Northeastern states Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura are celebrating their statehood day today. The three states were recognised as full-fledged states in 1971 under the North Eastern Region (Reorganisation) Act. Extending his wishes to the people of the three states, Prime Minister Modi tweeted on Monday, "On the special occasion of their Statehood Day, greetings to the people of Meghalaya. People from Meghalaya have made a notable contribution to our country. I pray for the state’s continuous progress". "Manipur is blessed with immense natural beauty and hardworking citizens. I can never forget the affection I have got in the state. On their Statehood Day, I greet my sisters and brothers of Manipur. May the state continue scaling new heights of development." "Statehood Day greetings to the people of Tripura. In less than a year, the state has made remarkable progress. It is realising it’s true potential and people’s aspirations are being fulfilled at a record pace. May this spirit grow further in the coming years". Manipur is blessed with immense natural beauty and hardworking citizens. I can never forget the affection I have got in the state. On their Statehood Day, I greet my sisters and brothers of Manipur. May the state continue scaling new heights of development. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 21, 2019 × President Ram Nath Kovind and the chief ministers of the respective states also greeted the people for their statehood day. Greetings to the people of Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura on statehood day. My best wishes to these states for a bright and prosperous future #PresidentKovind — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) January 21, 2019 × Greetings to my beloved brothers & sisters on the occasion of Statehood Day of #Tripura. Let us reaffirm our commitment to work for comprehensive development of our state. With blessings of Ma Tripureswari, we shall attain our vision of #TransformingTripura into a Model State. pic.twitter.com/TWjR0R70cG — Biplab Kumar Deb (@BjpBiplab) January 21, 2019 × On the occasion of the 47th Statehood, let us rededicate ourselves to the values with which our beloved State was formed & reaffirm our commitment to work for the people. On this happy day, I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to the people of #Meghalaya.@PMOIndia — Conrad Sangma (@SangmaConrad) January 20, 2019 ×

Manipur, Meghalaya, Tripura celebrate their Statehood Day

A day after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/navy-abandons-efforts-to-pull-out-decomposed-body-of-miner-191659">Navy announced its suspension of operation</a> from Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district, the state government on Monday told the Supreme Court that they were not abandoning the rescue operation.

News agency ANI reported that the Meghalaya government has informed the Supreme Court that the state and the centre were not suspending the rescue operation.

The government has also&nbsp;filed a status report to the apex court.

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Meghalaya miners' rescue case: Meghalaya government tells the Supreme Court it has filed status report and that the state govt and Centre is not abandoning the rescue operation.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1087244844735565825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Navy on Sunday "suspended" its operation to retrieve the body of one of the 15 miners trapped inside an illegal 370-ft flooded coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district.

"The Navy today suspended the pulling of the remains, which they had been trying since yesterday evening, as too much disintegration (of the body) took place with every pull by the ROV jaw," operation spokesperson R Susngi had said.

The Navy divers had spotted the decomposed body of a trapped miner on Wednesday, using an unmanned, remotely-operated vehicle (ROV) at a depth of around 160 feet inside the mine's main shaft.

At least 15 miners are trapped inside the mine since December 13 last year after one of them accidentally punctured the wall of the mine, leading to its flooding.

A multi-agency operation, which included de-watering of the main shaft where the miners are trapped, and of the nearby mines, has failed to yield any result as the water level has not gone down.

In the last 46 hours, the Coal India had pumped out over 52 lakh litres of water from the nearby abandoned mines, but it was not enough to bring down the water level that was causing hindrances in the rescue work, Susngi said.

The Kirloskar Brothers Limited, which has also joined the rescue efforts, had managed to pump out over 45 lakh litres of water, he said, adding that the Odisha Fire Services had pumped out approximately 4.5 lakh litres.

The apex court had earlier expressed dissatisfaction with the rescue efforts to trace the miners and rapped the Meghalaya government for not seeking the Army's help.

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after the Navy announced its suspension of operation from Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district, the state government on Monday told the Supreme Court that they were not abandoning the rescue operation.

A day after the Navy announced its suspension of operation from Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district, the state government on Monday told the Supreme Court that they were not abandoning the rescue operation. News agency ANI reported that the Meghalaya government has informed the Supreme Court that the state and the centre were not suspending the rescue operation. The government has also filed a status report to the apex court. Meghalaya miners' rescue case: Meghalaya government tells the Supreme Court it has filed status report and that the state govt and Centre is not abandoning the rescue operation. — ANI (@ANI) January 21, 2019 × The Navy on Sunday "suspended" its operation to retrieve the body of one of the 15 miners trapped inside an illegal 370-ft flooded coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district. "The Navy today suspended the pulling of the remains, which they had been trying since yesterday evening, as too much disintegration (of the body) took place with every pull by the ROV jaw," operation spokesperson R Susngi had said. The Navy divers had spotted the decomposed body of a trapped miner on Wednesday, using an unmanned, remotely-operated vehicle (ROV) at a depth of around 160 feet inside the mine's main shaft. At least 15 miners are trapped inside the mine since December 13 last year after one of them accidentally punctured the wall of the mine, leading to its flooding. A multi-agency operation, which included de-watering of the main shaft where the miners are trapped, and of the nearby mines, has failed to yield any result as the water level has not gone down. In the last 46 hours, the Coal India had pumped out over 52 lakh litres of water from the nearby abandoned mines, but it was not enough to bring down the water level that was causing hindrances in the rescue work, Susngi said. The Kirloskar Brothers Limited, which has also joined the rescue efforts, had managed to pump out over 45 lakh litres of water, he said, adding that the Odisha Fire Services had pumped out approximately 4.5 lakh litres. The apex court had earlier expressed dissatisfaction with the rescue efforts to trace the miners and rapped the Meghalaya government for not seeking the Army's help. (With inputs from agencies)

Meghalaya miners' rescue case: State government, Centre not abandoning rescue operation

The families of four of the 15 miners trapped inside a 370-foot-deep coal mine in Meghalaya requested rescuers on Saturday to retrieve a decomposed body spotted by the divers so that they can perform the last rites.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-mine-rescue-navy-divers-are-seeing-skeletons-say-sources-191021">Navy divers</a> had detected a body using an unmanned remotely-operated vehicle (ROV) at a depth of around 160 feet inside the main shaft on Wednesday.

Government officials have said that it would be extremely difficult to retrieve the body intact since it was in a decomposed state.

A senior government official said that the rescue operation is still underway because of a Supreme Court order.

"We want the body," said Manik Ali, whose 20-year-old brother Monirul Islam is among the 15 miners who were trapped in the rat-hole mine.

"Even if they manage to get a finger or a bone out of the shaft, it is fine for us. We will at least be able to bury the dead with some respect," said Ali.

Ali, representing the families of three trapped miners from Assam's Chirang district, and Aminul Uddin from Hojai district were called by the district administration and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) on Thursday to see video footage showing the body.

"They showed us the video. The body is swollen. The face cannot be seen so we cannot make out who it is," said Aminul Uddin, who worked at the same coal mine with his elder brother Kuti Miya.

Aminul Uddin was lucky as he went home on December 7 to vote in Assam's panchayat elections.

"On the evening of December 13, I got to know that my brother is trapped," he said.

On December 13, water from nearby Lytein river flooded a network of tunnels in the mine, trapping the 15 men.

A multi-agency operation, which includes de-watering of the main shaft where the miners are trapped and in the nearby mines, have failed to yield any result so far, as the water level did not reduce even after pumping out over 3 crore litres of water, officials had said.

The district administration and rescuers have told the families that the body could disintegrate if it is pulled out and that it would be difficult to retrieve it.

"It does not matter. We are Muslims. According to Quran we have to bury the dead. I can recognise if it's my brother even if I get to see the ring on his finger," said Ali.

"I have lived with my brother all my life. I will be able to recognise him," said Aminul.

Both of them said they have conveyed the message to the district administration.

"The deputy commissioner is talking to the next of kin and trying to convince them that it is very difficult to retrieve the body," said Peter Ingty, Additional

Chief Secretary, who is overseeing the rescue operation.

He said it is because of the Supreme Court order that the operation has not been called off.

"It is only because of the Supreme Court order that we are hanging on. Submissions will be made before the court and let's see what happens," Ingty said.

The apex court is hearing public interest litigation (PIL) seeking steps to rescue the 15 miners.

The families of four of the 15 miners trapped inside a 370-foot-deep coal mine in Meghalaya requested rescuers on Saturday to retrieve a decomposed body spotted by the divers so that they can perform the last rites.

The families of four of the 15 miners trapped inside a 370-foot-deep coal mine in Meghalaya requested rescuers on Saturday to retrieve a decomposed body spotted by the divers so that they can perform the last rites. Navy divers had detected a body using an unmanned remotely-operated vehicle (ROV) at a depth of around 160 feet inside the main shaft on Wednesday. Government officials have said that it would be extremely difficult to retrieve the body intact since it was in a decomposed state. A senior government official said that the rescue operation is still underway because of a Supreme Court order. "We want the body," said Manik Ali, whose 20-year-old brother Monirul Islam is among the 15 miners who were trapped in the rat-hole mine. "Even if they manage to get a finger or a bone out of the shaft, it is fine for us. We will at least be able to bury the dead with some respect," said Ali. Ali, representing the families of three trapped miners from Assam's Chirang district, and Aminul Uddin from Hojai district were called by the district administration and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) on Thursday to see video footage showing the body. "They showed us the video. The body is swollen. The face cannot be seen so we cannot make out who it is," said Aminul Uddin, who worked at the same coal mine with his elder brother Kuti Miya. Aminul Uddin was lucky as he went home on December 7 to vote in Assam's panchayat elections. "On the evening of December 13, I got to know that my brother is trapped," he said. On December 13, water from nearby Lytein river flooded a network of tunnels in the mine, trapping the 15 men. A multi-agency operation, which includes de-watering of the main shaft where the miners are trapped and in the nearby mines, have failed to yield any result so far, as the water level did not reduce even after pumping out over 3 crore litres of water, officials had said. The district administration and rescuers have told the families that the body could disintegrate if it is pulled out and that it would be difficult to retrieve it. "It does not matter. We are Muslims. According to Quran we have to bury the dead. I can recognise if it's my brother even if I get to see the ring on his finger," said Ali. "I have lived with my brother all my life. I will be able to recognise him," said Aminul. Both of them said they have conveyed the message to the district administration. "The deputy commissioner is talking to the next of kin and trying to convince them that it is very difficult to retrieve the body," said Peter Ingty, Additional Chief Secretary, who is overseeing the rescue operation. He said it is because of the Supreme Court order that the operation has not been called off. "It is only because of the Supreme Court order that we are hanging on. Submissions will be made before the court and let's see what happens," Ingty said. The apex court is hearing public interest litigation (PIL) seeking steps to rescue the 15 miners.

Retrieve decomposed body so we can perform last rites: Families of Meghalaya miners to divers

The Meghalaya government Tuesday ordered implementation of the Supreme Court order banning the transportation of coal with immediate effect, officials said.

Chief Secretary Y Tsering issued the order directing authorities to ensure compliance of the directions of the Supreme Court without fail, they said.

The apex court banned the transportation of coal in the state forthwith until the next hearing on February 19, refusing a plea by the miners to send extracted coal left to transport since the 2014 National Green Tribunal ban on mining.

In pursuance of the directions of the Supreme Court in its sitting Tuesday as communicated by the learned advocate general, transportation of coal in the state of Meghalaya is hereby stopped with immediate effect, Tsering said in his order.

The ban comes a week after a citizens forum in Meghalaya, in which RTI activists Agnes Kharshiing was part of, demanded the Supreme Court to issue a complete ban on coal mining/transportation in the state citing that there has been absolute loss in terms of revenue from the industry and that all indices in the mining district are down with 76 per cent of people landless.

The forum alleged collusions between the state government and the illegal coal miners wherein the courts and the NGT were misled on several occasions on the total amount of extracted coal waiting to be transported.

The Supreme Court has also rapped the Meghalaya government for failing to curb illegal mining and has asked it to file an affidavit.

Former chief minister and Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma hit out at the state government and said the leadership do not have the moral rights to continue to be in office.

This (SC order) shows that for the first time, the court no longer trusts the state government and the leadership has to be held responsible. With this exposure, the leadership does not have the moral and legal rights to continue in office, Mukul said.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, the Indian Navy carried on with the underwater exploration at the main shaft in search of the miners for 15 hours without any results, operation spokesperson R Susngi told PTI.

He said the Kirloskar Brothers Ltd (KBL) pumps did not dewater the main shaft in view of the Navy underwater exploration.

Coal India Ltd and Odisha Fire Services, on the other hand, ran their pumps in nearby abandoned shafts in search of any signs of the miners, Susngi said. 
Scientists from Hyderabad and Chennai are surveying the strata of the coal seams and the rocks formation in the area, he said.

As the operations entered its 32nd day Tuesday, the Sound Navigation and Ranging (SONAR), which uses sound propagation to navigate, communicate or detect objects underwater, is expected to arrive at the site anytime soon.

The machines will be used to map the rat holes crisscrossing underneath the earth's crust in the area.&nbsp;

The Meghalaya government Tuesday ordered implementation of the Supreme Court order banning the transportation of coal with immediate effect, officials said. Chief Secretary Y Tsering issued the order directing authorities to ensure compliance of the directions of the Supreme Court without fail, they said.

The Meghalaya government Tuesday ordered implementation of the Supreme Court order banning the transportation of coal with immediate effect, officials said. Chief Secretary Y Tsering issued the order directing authorities to ensure compliance of the directions of the Supreme Court without fail, they said. The apex court banned the transportation of coal in the state forthwith until the next hearing on February 19, refusing a plea by the miners to send extracted coal left to transport since the 2014 National Green Tribunal ban on mining. In pursuance of the directions of the Supreme Court in its sitting Tuesday as communicated by the learned advocate general, transportation of coal in the state of Meghalaya is hereby stopped with immediate effect, Tsering said in his order. The ban comes a week after a citizens forum in Meghalaya, in which RTI activists Agnes Kharshiing was part of, demanded the Supreme Court to issue a complete ban on coal mining/transportation in the state citing that there has been absolute loss in terms of revenue from the industry and that all indices in the mining district are down with 76 per cent of people landless. The forum alleged collusions between the state government and the illegal coal miners wherein the courts and the NGT were misled on several occasions on the total amount of extracted coal waiting to be transported. The Supreme Court has also rapped the Meghalaya government for failing to curb illegal mining and has asked it to file an affidavit. Former chief minister and Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma hit out at the state government and said the leadership do not have the moral rights to continue to be in office. This (SC order) shows that for the first time, the court no longer trusts the state government and the leadership has to be held responsible. With this exposure, the leadership does not have the moral and legal rights to continue in office, Mukul said. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, the Indian Navy carried on with the underwater exploration at the main shaft in search of the miners for 15 hours without any results, operation spokesperson R Susngi told PTI. He said the Kirloskar Brothers Ltd (KBL) pumps did not dewater the main shaft in view of the Navy underwater exploration. Coal India Ltd and Odisha Fire Services, on the other hand, ran their pumps in nearby abandoned shafts in search of any signs of the miners, Susngi said. Scientists from Hyderabad and Chennai are surveying the strata of the coal seams and the rocks formation in the area, he said. As the operations entered its 32nd day Tuesday, the Sound Navigation and Ranging (SONAR), which uses sound propagation to navigate, communicate or detect objects underwater, is expected to arrive at the site anytime soon. The machines will be used to map the rat holes crisscrossing underneath the earth's crust in the area.

Meghalaya government orders implementation of Supreme Court order banning coal transportation

It is exactly a month after 15 miners have been trapped in an illegal rat-hole coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district. The chances of their rescue continue to remain bleak as dewatering the mine has so far been a futile effort.&nbsp;

Scientists and top notch agencies, known for their work in underground mines of the country, Sunday arrived in the East Jaintia Hills to step up efforts to rescue the miners in what is perhaps the country's longest rescue mission.

Operation spokesperson R Susngi told PTI that a team headed by a scientist and comprising experts from Hyderabad-based National Geophysical Research Institute, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (NGIR-CSIR) and Gravity and Magnetic Group, was at the spot.

Besides, a team each from the Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and Chennai-based Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) have arrived to step up the mission, he said.

Till date, the dewatering of the 370-foot-deep mine where <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/submersible-robotic-inspection-firm-joins-meghalaya-mine-rescue-operation-190011">the miners are trapped</a> has proved futile as over 1 crore litres of water has been pumped out of the main shaft in the past one month, but there has been no visible change in the water level, the official said.

Another 2 crore plus litres of water was pumped out from the nearby abandoned mines suspected to be connected to the mine where the miners are trapped, but the rescuers are clueless 'how' and 'where' the water is coming from, he said.

In the Khloo-Ryngksan area, where the ill-fated mine is located at the western side of a small hillock, the Lytein river crisscrosses the valley for over 2 km.

Experts have been visiting the spot since December 20 for rescuing the miners after the news broke out at the national level, but the huge water level inside has foiled all their efforts.

Susngi said senior scientist of CSIR-NGRI Devashish Kumar and his team have arrived for the operation. Another scientist from the Gravity and Magnetic Group, Niraj Kumar and his team too arrived as have Jayanti Gogoi of GPR and Vineet Upadhyay, who is heading the team of operators of the ROV from Chennai.

A team from Pune-based KSB has also arrived at the site and work is in progress to instal another high power pump at the site, he said.

The teams have been joined by about 200 people from different agencies of the Government of India, including Indian Navy and NDRF, besides Coal India Ltd and Kirloskar Brothers Ltd.

The Supreme Court which is monitoring the rescue efforts has directed the authorities to step up their efforts and bring out the miners 'dead or alive'.&nbsp;

A citizens forum here associated with RTI activist Agnes Kharshiinz has approached the Supreme Court for a complete ban on coal mining in the state, saying there has been an "absolute" loss in terms of revenue from the industry and that all indices in the mining district are down with 76 per cent of people being landless.

Forum leader Angela Rangad said Sunday there were 24,626 coal mines in the district - about 52 mines/sq km at different stages of mining.

The forum alleged collusion between the state government and the illegal coal miners wherein the courts and the NGT were misled on several occasions on the total amount of extracted coal waiting to be transported.

"This is evident from the fact that out of the 57 months (since May 2014 when the ban was enforced), the NGT and the Supreme Court has allowed 32 months of transportation. Where did so much untransported coal come from?" Rangad said.

"We have requested the court to issue a direction to the state government to confiscate all untransported coal and use it in public undertaking factories," she said.

The report has been submitted to the Supreme Court for its perusal in Tuesday's hearing, the forum leader said and hoped that the judiciary would take cognisance of the evidence put forth in the 600-page report of the citizen's forum.

The National Green Tribunal had put a blanket ban on this type of mining since May 2014 as it said it was unscientific and put the life of miners at risk.

An interim relief of Rs 1 lakh has been offered to the family members of the trapped miners, officials said.

The mine owner, Krip Chullet, was arrested on December 14 while two of his accomplices are still on the run, Superintendent of Police Sylvester Nongtynger said.&nbsp;

Kharshiing, who narrowly escaped attempts on her life by coal mafia on November 8 last, Sunday demanded that the attack case be handed over to the CBI.

Eight out of the nine persons involved in masterminding the attack have been arrested so far, police said.

The arrested include Nidamon Chullet, the district leader of the ruling National Peoples Party, they added. 
&nbsp;

It is exactly a month after 15 miners have been trapped in an illegal rat-hole coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district. The chances of their rescue continue to remain bleak as dewatering the mine has so far been a futile effort.

It is exactly a month after 15 miners have been trapped in an illegal rat-hole coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district. The chances of their rescue continue to remain bleak as dewatering the mine has so far been a futile effort. Scientists and top notch agencies, known for their work in underground mines of the country, Sunday arrived in the East Jaintia Hills to step up efforts to rescue the miners in what is perhaps the country's longest rescue mission. Operation spokesperson R Susngi told PTI that a team headed by a scientist and comprising experts from Hyderabad-based National Geophysical Research Institute, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (NGIR-CSIR) and Gravity and Magnetic Group, was at the spot. Besides, a team each from the Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and Chennai-based Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) have arrived to step up the mission, he said. Till date, the dewatering of the 370-foot-deep mine where the miners are trapped has proved futile as over 1 crore litres of water has been pumped out of the main shaft in the past one month, but there has been no visible change in the water level, the official said. Another 2 crore plus litres of water was pumped out from the nearby abandoned mines suspected to be connected to the mine where the miners are trapped, but the rescuers are clueless 'how' and 'where' the water is coming from, he said. In the Khloo-Ryngksan area, where the ill-fated mine is located at the western side of a small hillock, the Lytein river crisscrosses the valley for over 2 km. Experts have been visiting the spot since December 20 for rescuing the miners after the news broke out at the national level, but the huge water level inside has foiled all their efforts. Susngi said senior scientist of CSIR-NGRI Devashish Kumar and his team have arrived for the operation. Another scientist from the Gravity and Magnetic Group, Niraj Kumar and his team too arrived as have Jayanti Gogoi of GPR and Vineet Upadhyay, who is heading the team of operators of the ROV from Chennai. A team from Pune-based KSB has also arrived at the site and work is in progress to instal another high power pump at the site, he said. The teams have been joined by about 200 people from different agencies of the Government of India, including Indian Navy and NDRF, besides Coal India Ltd and Kirloskar Brothers Ltd. The Supreme Court which is monitoring the rescue efforts has directed the authorities to step up their efforts and bring out the miners 'dead or alive'. A citizens forum here associated with RTI activist Agnes Kharshiinz has approached the Supreme Court for a complete ban on coal mining in the state, saying there has been an "absolute" loss in terms of revenue from the industry and that all indices in the mining district are down with 76 per cent of people being landless. Forum leader Angela Rangad said Sunday there were 24,626 coal mines in the district - about 52 mines/sq km at different stages of mining. The forum alleged collusion between the state government and the illegal coal miners wherein the courts and the NGT were misled on several occasions on the total amount of extracted coal waiting to be transported. "This is evident from the fact that out of the 57 months (since May 2014 when the ban was enforced), the NGT and the Supreme Court has allowed 32 months of transportation. Where did so much untransported coal come from?" Rangad said. "We have requested the court to issue a direction to the state government to confiscate all untransported coal and use it in public undertaking factories," she said. The report has been submitted to the Supreme Court for its perusal in Tuesday's hearing, the forum leader said and hoped that the judiciary would take cognisance of the evidence put forth in the 600-page report of the citizen's forum. The National Green Tribunal had put a blanket ban on this type of mining since May 2014 as it said it was unscientific and put the life of miners at risk. An interim relief of Rs 1 lakh has been offered to the family members of the trapped miners, officials said. The mine owner, Krip Chullet, was arrested on December 14 while two of his accomplices are still on the run, Superintendent of Police Sylvester Nongtynger said. Kharshiing, who narrowly escaped attempts on her life by coal mafia on November 8 last, Sunday demanded that the attack case be handed over to the CBI. Eight out of the nine persons involved in masterminding the attack have been arrested so far, police said. The arrested include Nidamon Chullet, the district leader of the ruling National Peoples Party, they added.

One month on, chances of rescue for trapped Meghalaya miners continue to remain bleak

A month after 15 miners were trapped in a coal mine, search operations for which is still underway, a three-member committee of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has asked the Meghalaya Police to investigate into nearly 1200 cases of illegal quarrying across the state.

The green tribunal had imposed a blanket ban on coal mining and transportation in Meghalaya in 2014, citing unscientific methods and absence of safety measures.

The three-member NGT committee, constituted in August last year, is currently studying the environmental aspects of rat-hole mining in the state.

An official said the police have been told that their probe should reach a logical conclusion after taking into account all 1200 cases of illegal rat-hole mining in East Garo Hills, South-West Khasi Hills and West and East Jaintia Hills districts.

Rat-hole mining involves digging of narrow tunnels, usually 3-4 feet high, for workers to enter and extract coal. The horizontal tunnels are often termed "rat-holes", as each just about fits one person.

On December 13, water from nearby Lytein river flooded a network of tunnels in a coal mine in Lumthari village of East Jaintia Hills, trapping 15 men and prompting a rescue attempt that has failed to yield any result so far.

That mining goes on unabated in the state can be gauged from the fact that heaps of freshly dug coal is dumped on both sides of the road that approaches Lumthari from Khliehriat, the district headquarters of East Jaintia Hills.

Meanwhile, official sources said the NGT committee, which has sought police investigation into the registered cases of illegal mining, is set to visit the state by January-end.

The committee, headed by retired judge Justice (Retd) B P Katakey, will conduct a field visit to South Garo Hills on January 30-31 to study the ground-level situation, they said.

Katakey told PTI that 98 cases of illegal quarrying have been registered in East Jaintia Hills district alone since the ban.

The committee, after a thorough study, will prepare a report and present it before the tribunal by March 31, he said.

"We have directed investigation into nearly 1200 cases of illegal mining and transportation of coal since the 2014 ban. In East Jaintia Hills, the SP has been asked to submit a report at the earliest in connection with the 98 cases recorded in the district," Katakey added.

An official in the state mining and geology department said Meghalaya does not maintain statistics on mining and mishaps.

"As there is no study or statistics on the prevalence of mining in the state, the three-member NGT panel has asked district deputy commissioners to furnish all available data in connection with the illegal practices," he added.

A month after 15 miners were trapped in a coal mine, search operations for which is still underway, a three-member committee of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has asked the Meghalaya Police to investigate into nearly 1200 cases of illegal quarrying across the state.

A month after 15 miners were trapped in a coal mine, search operations for which is still underway, a three-member committee of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has asked the Meghalaya Police to investigate into nearly 1200 cases of illegal quarrying across the state. The green tribunal had imposed a blanket ban on coal mining and transportation in Meghalaya in 2014, citing unscientific methods and absence of safety measures. The three-member NGT committee, constituted in August last year, is currently studying the environmental aspects of rat-hole mining in the state. An official said the police have been told that their probe should reach a logical conclusion after taking into account all 1200 cases of illegal rat-hole mining in East Garo Hills, South-West Khasi Hills and West and East Jaintia Hills districts. Rat-hole mining involves digging of narrow tunnels, usually 3-4 feet high, for workers to enter and extract coal. The horizontal tunnels are often termed "rat-holes", as each just about fits one person. On December 13, water from nearby Lytein river flooded a network of tunnels in a coal mine in Lumthari village of East Jaintia Hills, trapping 15 men and prompting a rescue attempt that has failed to yield any result so far. That mining goes on unabated in the state can be gauged from the fact that heaps of freshly dug coal is dumped on both sides of the road that approaches Lumthari from Khliehriat, the district headquarters of East Jaintia Hills. Meanwhile, official sources said the NGT committee, which has sought police investigation into the registered cases of illegal mining, is set to visit the state by January-end. The committee, headed by retired judge Justice (Retd) B P Katakey, will conduct a field visit to South Garo Hills on January 30-31 to study the ground-level situation, they said. Katakey told PTI that 98 cases of illegal quarrying have been registered in East Jaintia Hills district alone since the ban. The committee, after a thorough study, will prepare a report and present it before the tribunal by March 31, he said. "We have directed investigation into nearly 1200 cases of illegal mining and transportation of coal since the 2014 ban. In East Jaintia Hills, the SP has been asked to submit a report at the earliest in connection with the 98 cases recorded in the district," Katakey added. An official in the state mining and geology department said Meghalaya does not maintain statistics on mining and mishaps. "As there is no study or statistics on the prevalence of mining in the state, the three-member NGT panel has asked district deputy commissioners to furnish all available data in connection with the illegal practices," he added.

Month after mishap, NGT asks Meghalaya police to crack whip on illegal mining

A team of a city-based company that specialises in submersible robotic inspections on Sunday joined the operation to rescue 15 miners trapped for a month now inside a flooded rat-hole coal mine in Meghalaya.

According to the website of the company, Planys Technologies, it is an IIT Madras incubated company that provides submersible robotic inspections and survey solutions using Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV).

One ROV and a six-member team of the firm have joined the operation, a company official said.

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"The team joined Sunday. They are working with the Navy," the official, who did not want to be named, told PTI.

The miners have been trapped inside a 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district since December 13, 2018, after water from a nearby river gushed in, puncturing the mine wall.

Even as a multi-agency effort to rescue them is underway, the Supreme Court is hearing a PIL in the matter for urgent action.&nbsp;

The Centre on Friday told the apex court it has to "believe in miracles" and see if the miners come out alive.

The Indian Navy and planes and helicopters of the Indian Air Force have been deployed in the rescue operations.&nbsp;

A team of a city-based company that specialises in submersible robotic inspections on Sunday joined the operation to rescue 15 miners trapped for a month now inside a flooded rat-hole coal mine in Meghalaya.

A team of a city-based company that specialises in submersible robotic inspections on Sunday joined the operation to rescue 15 miners trapped for a month now inside a flooded rat-hole coal mine in Meghalaya. According to the website of the company, Planys Technologies, it is an IIT Madras incubated company that provides submersible robotic inspections and survey solutions using Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV). One ROV and a six-member team of the firm have joined the operation, a company official said. Home Minister Rajnath Singh after a meeting of BJP's Lok Sabha Election Manifesto Committee at BJP headquarters in Delhi: We will be forming 15 sub-committees*, these will include stakeholders from various fields to establish direct communication with the public. https://t.co/iWZ8JPNOAL — ANI (@ANI) January 13, 2019 × "The team joined Sunday. They are working with the Navy," the official, who did not want to be named, told PTI. The miners have been trapped inside a 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district since December 13, 2018, after water from a nearby river gushed in, puncturing the mine wall. Even as a multi-agency effort to rescue them is underway, the Supreme Court is hearing a PIL in the matter for urgent action. The Centre on Friday told the apex court it has to "believe in miracles" and see if the miners come out alive. The Indian Navy and planes and helicopters of the Indian Air Force have been deployed in the rescue operations.

Submersible robotic inspection firm joins Meghalaya mine rescue operation

Over 15 lakh litres of water was pumped out of the 370-foot deep coal mine in Meghalaya on Friday where 15 miners are trapped since December 13.

However, despite the pump out there was no significant drop in the level of the water.

A day before the rescuers had extracted over 28 lakh litres of water.

The Kirloskar Brothers Ltd pump is engaged in dewatering the main shaft where the miners are trapped. They carried out the work for 17.5 hours and managed to pump out 15.75 lakh litres, operations spokesperson R Susngi said.

The Centre told the Supreme Court Friday that it has to "believe in miracles" and see if the 15 miners, who have been trapped for almost a month inside an illegal rat-hole coal mine come out alive.

It said the authorities were making all efforts to save the lives of these persons and the Indian Navy and planes and helicopters of the Indian Air Force have been deployed in the rescue operation.

The authorities have arrested the person running the illegal mine where the incident took.

(With inputs from PTI)

Over 15 lakh litres of water was pumped out of the 370-foot deep coal mine in Meghalaya on Friday where 15 miners are trapped since December 13. However, despite the pump out there was no significant drop in the level of the water.

Over 15 lakh litres of water was pumped out of the 370-foot deep coal mine in Meghalaya on Friday where 15 miners are trapped since December 13. However, despite the pump out there was no significant drop in the level of the water. A day before the rescuers had extracted over 28 lakh litres of water. The Kirloskar Brothers Ltd pump is engaged in dewatering the main shaft where the miners are trapped. They carried out the work for 17.5 hours and managed to pump out 15.75 lakh litres, operations spokesperson R Susngi said. The Centre told the Supreme Court Friday that it has to "believe in miracles" and see if the 15 miners, who have been trapped for almost a month inside an illegal rat-hole coal mine come out alive. It said the authorities were making all efforts to save the lives of these persons and the Indian Navy and planes and helicopters of the Indian Air Force have been deployed in the rescue operation. The authorities have arrested the person running the illegal mine where the incident took. (With inputs from PTI)

Over 15 lakh litre more water pumped out of Meghalaya mine, but still no significant drop in water level

Coal India Limited (CIL) on Monday started pumping out water from the old shaft at around 3.30 pm as part of the ongoing operations to rescue the miners who have been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-miners-rescue-technical-glitches-in-high-power-pumps-operation-hit-roadblock-188606">trapped in a mine</a> at Ksan near Lyteiñ River in East Jaintia Hills.

In 2 hours, approximately 2,26,800 litre of water was pumped out from the mine.

Indian Navy divers have also put down Under Water Remotely Operating Vehicle (UWROV) and work is in progress.

Meanwhile, NDRF is also coordinating with agencies and providing assistance accordingly. Odisha Fire Service had reported that they stopped pumping from 2 old shafts at 5.30 pm yesterday.

Both the pumps were run for 10 hours each and total water discharge pumped out today was 1,80,000 litre.

Multiple agencies are involved in the operation which is underway to rescue the miners who have been trapped in a mine at Ksan near Lyteiñ River in East Jaintia Hills. They are trapped there since 13 December 2018.

Coal India Limited (CIL) on Monday started pumping out water from the old shaft at around 3.30 pm as part of the ongoing operations to rescue the miners who have been trapped in a mine at Ksan near Lyteiñ River in East Jaintia Hills.

Coal India Limited (CIL) on Monday started pumping out water from the old shaft at around 3.30 pm as part of the ongoing operations to rescue the miners who have been trapped in a mine at Ksan near Lyteiñ River in East Jaintia Hills. In 2 hours, approximately 2,26,800 litre of water was pumped out from the mine. Indian Navy divers have also put down Under Water Remotely Operating Vehicle (UWROV) and work is in progress. Meanwhile, NDRF is also coordinating with agencies and providing assistance accordingly. Odisha Fire Service had reported that they stopped pumping from 2 old shafts at 5.30 pm yesterday. Both the pumps were run for 10 hours each and total water discharge pumped out today was 1,80,000 litre. Multiple agencies are involved in the operation which is underway to rescue the miners who have been trapped in a mine at Ksan near Lyteiñ River in East Jaintia Hills. They are trapped there since 13 December 2018.

Meghalaya: Over 2 lakh litre water pumped out in efforts to rescue trapped miners

In yet another mine-related mishap, two people lost their lives after a coal mine collapsed in Mooknor village on Sunday.

S Nongtnger, SP, East Jaintia Hills said, "It is suspected that boulders hit them while they were trying to extract coal. The investigation is underway to identify the owner of the quarry."

Meanwhile, the operation to rescue the miners who have been trapped in a mine at Ksan near Lyteiñ River in East Jaintia Hills is still underway.

Fire service operated their pumps for 7 hours and 6.30 hours respectively from shaft No. 2 and 3.

One pump was started at 10:00 am and another pump was started at 10.30 am respectively.

The water from both the shafts reduced by 4 feet but due to heavy seepage from other shafts, the water level increased and only 2 feet water has been reduced.

A total 12,15,000 litres water has so far been pumped out from both the shafts.

The Indian Navy divers and the NDRF jointly assisted the Coal India in their works. The miners have been stuck in the mine since December 13 last year.&nbsp;

In yet another mine-related mishap, two people lost their lives after a coal mine collapsed in Mooknor village on Sunday. S Nongtnger, SP, East Jaintia Hills said, "It is suspected that boulders hit them while they were trying to extract coal.

In yet another mine-related mishap, two people lost their lives after a coal mine collapsed in Mooknor village on Sunday. S Nongtnger, SP, East Jaintia Hills said, "It is suspected that boulders hit them while they were trying to extract coal. The investigation is underway to identify the owner of the quarry." Meanwhile, the operation to rescue the miners who have been trapped in a mine at Ksan near Lyteiñ River in East Jaintia Hills is still underway. Fire service operated their pumps for 7 hours and 6.30 hours respectively from shaft No. 2 and 3. One pump was started at 10:00 am and another pump was started at 10.30 am respectively. The water from both the shafts reduced by 4 feet but due to heavy seepage from other shafts, the water level increased and only 2 feet water has been reduced. A total 12,15,000 litres water has so far been pumped out from both the shafts. The Indian Navy divers and the NDRF jointly assisted the Coal India in their works. The miners have been stuck in the mine since December 13 last year.

Meghalaya: 2 dead after another coal mine collapses

Rescue operations for the 15 miners trapped in a Meghalaya mine hit a roadblock on Sunday as the two high-powered pumps engaged in de-watering did not operate the whole day after developing technical glitches, and Navy divers could not venture down with no change in the water level, officials said.

The high-powered pumps of Kirloskar Brothers Ltd installed Saturday to pump out water from the main shaft, where the miners are trapped since December 13, developed glitches and could not function the whole day.

Another submersible pump from Coal India Ltd (CIL) also faced a snag, affecting dewatering operations in the nearby abandoned mines in East Jaintia Hills district, they said.

"Two pumps from Kirloskar Brothers and the submersible pump from Coal India encountered glitches and the de-watering process in the main shaft was affected," R Susngi, spokesperson for the operation, told PTI.

The two high-powered pumps are undergoing repair work, he said, adding that the CIL pump was replaced with a new one.

The CIL is expected to put into operation at least three more pumps on Monday, Susngi added.

However, no headway could be made in reducing the water levels in the main shaft and the nearby mines due to the malfunctioning of the pumps and fresh seepage, the official said.

Divers from the Indian Navy and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) could not venture down to gauge the water level inside the main shaft as it was beyond the safe diving limit of 100 feet, the spokesperson said.

The current water level in the main shaft is about 160 feet, while its total depth is around 370 feet.

Rescue work is suspended daily at around 5 pm as night falls. The Kirloskar Brothers pumps could be used for just one hour on Saturday, he said.

The owner of the illegal coal mine has been arrested.

Meanwhile, the Opposition Congress Sunday alleged that the BJP-backed Meghalaya Democratic Alliance government has allowed illegal coal mining within six months of coming to power.

"The BJP and the National People's Party (NPP) had both promised the people of the state to open up coal mining if they were elected to power. Actually, what they did was open up illegal coal mining within six months," Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma told reporters here.&nbsp;

Rescue operations for the 15 miners trapped in a Meghalaya mine hit a roadblock on Sunday as the two high-powered pumps engaged in de-watering did not operate the whole day after developing technical glitches, and Navy divers could not venture down with no change in the water level, officials said.

Rescue operations for the 15 miners trapped in a Meghalaya mine hit a roadblock on Sunday as the two high-powered pumps engaged in de-watering did not operate the whole day after developing technical glitches, and Navy divers could not venture down with no change in the water level, officials said. The high-powered pumps of Kirloskar Brothers Ltd installed Saturday to pump out water from the main shaft, where the miners are trapped since December 13, developed glitches and could not function the whole day. Another submersible pump from Coal India Ltd (CIL) also faced a snag, affecting dewatering operations in the nearby abandoned mines in East Jaintia Hills district, they said. "Two pumps from Kirloskar Brothers and the submersible pump from Coal India encountered glitches and the de-watering process in the main shaft was affected," R Susngi, spokesperson for the operation, told PTI. The two high-powered pumps are undergoing repair work, he said, adding that the CIL pump was replaced with a new one. The CIL is expected to put into operation at least three more pumps on Monday, Susngi added. However, no headway could be made in reducing the water levels in the main shaft and the nearby mines due to the malfunctioning of the pumps and fresh seepage, the official said. Divers from the Indian Navy and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) could not venture down to gauge the water level inside the main shaft as it was beyond the safe diving limit of 100 feet, the spokesperson said. The current water level in the main shaft is about 160 feet, while its total depth is around 370 feet. Rescue work is suspended daily at around 5 pm as night falls. The Kirloskar Brothers pumps could be used for just one hour on Saturday, he said. The owner of the illegal coal mine has been arrested. Meanwhile, the Opposition Congress Sunday alleged that the BJP-backed Meghalaya Democratic Alliance government has allowed illegal coal mining within six months of coming to power. "The BJP and the National People's Party (NPP) had both promised the people of the state to open up coal mining if they were elected to power. Actually, what they did was open up illegal coal mining within six months," Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma told reporters here.

Meghalaya miners rescue: Technical glitches in high-power pumps, operation hit roadblock

The National Green Tribunal Friday imposed a fine of whopping Rs 100 crore on the Meghalaya government for its <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-miners-rescue-supreme-court-asks-centre-meghalaya-govt-to-file-status-report-188208">failure to curb illegal coal mining</a> in the state.&nbsp;

A senior advocate, who is assisting the tribunal as an amicus curiae in the matter, said a report of a high-level committee was submitted on January 2 before a bench headed by NGT chairperson A K Goel.&nbsp;

The report stated that majority of the mines in the northeastern state were operating without a lease or licence.

The Tribunal imposed Rs 100 crore fine on the state government as a "deterrent" and for its "inaction" to curb illegal mining in the northeastern state.&nbsp; 
The lawyer said during the hearing, the state government admitted that a large number of mines were operating illegally.

At least 15 miners are trapped in the 370 foot-deep illegal coal mine in Lumthari village of East Jaintia Hills district of<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-mining-tragedy-no-change-in-water-level-even-after-using-high-pressure-pumps-187811"> Meghalaya </a>since December 13 and all efforts to pump the water out of flooded mine have been in vain.

Senior advocate Raj Panjawani said the amount of the fine has to be deposited with the Central Pollution Control Board within two months.

He said the bench in its order made it clear that the amount can be recovered from illegal miners and the officials responsible for operating mines illegally.

The report of the three-member committee, headed by retired Justice B P Kakoti of Gauhati High Court, has stated that there were around 24,000 mines in Meghalaya and majority of them were operating illegally.

It added that not only were there no licences or leases, but also no environmental clearance for operation of the majority of the coal mines.

The NGT had constituted the committee in August 2018 to supervise and look into the issue of the environmental restoration plan and other connected matters in Meghalaya.

The committee was constituted during the hearing of the petition which had sought a ban on coal mining in Meghalaya. It had also taken into account some reports of the state pollution control board.

Meghalaya's advocate general Amit Kumar said he had been conveyed about the order of the NGT imposing Rs 100 crore on the state. He said the detailed order would be made available in a couple of days.&nbsp;

The National Green Tribunal had ordered an interim ban on 'rat-hole' coal mining in Meghalaya from April 17, 2014.

The latest order comes when the authorities are finding it difficult to rescue the 15 miners trapped since December 13 in an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya as there is no blueprint of the 355-feet well which has a "maze of rat holes".&nbsp;

The National Green Tribunal Friday imposed a fine of whopping Rs 100 crore on the Meghalaya government for its failure to curb illegal coal mining in the state. A senior advocate, who is assisting the tribunal as an amicus curiae in the matter, said a report of a high-level committee was submitted on January 2 before a bench headed by NGT chairperson A K Goel.

The National Green Tribunal Friday imposed a fine of whopping Rs 100 crore on the Meghalaya government for its failure to curb illegal coal mining in the state. A senior advocate, who is assisting the tribunal as an amicus curiae in the matter, said a report of a high-level committee was submitted on January 2 before a bench headed by NGT chairperson A K Goel. The report stated that majority of the mines in the northeastern state were operating without a lease or licence. The Tribunal imposed Rs 100 crore fine on the state government as a "deterrent" and for its "inaction" to curb illegal mining in the northeastern state. The lawyer said during the hearing, the state government admitted that a large number of mines were operating illegally. At least 15 miners are trapped in the 370 foot-deep illegal coal mine in Lumthari village of East Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya since December 13 and all efforts to pump the water out of flooded mine have been in vain. Senior advocate Raj Panjawani said the amount of the fine has to be deposited with the Central Pollution Control Board within two months. He said the bench in its order made it clear that the amount can be recovered from illegal miners and the officials responsible for operating mines illegally. The report of the three-member committee, headed by retired Justice B P Kakoti of Gauhati High Court, has stated that there were around 24,000 mines in Meghalaya and majority of them were operating illegally. It added that not only were there no licences or leases, but also no environmental clearance for operation of the majority of the coal mines. The NGT had constituted the committee in August 2018 to supervise and look into the issue of the environmental restoration plan and other connected matters in Meghalaya. The committee was constituted during the hearing of the petition which had sought a ban on coal mining in Meghalaya. It had also taken into account some reports of the state pollution control board. Meghalaya's advocate general Amit Kumar said he had been conveyed about the order of the NGT imposing Rs 100 crore on the state. He said the detailed order would be made available in a couple of days. The National Green Tribunal had ordered an interim ban on 'rat-hole' coal mining in Meghalaya from April 17, 2014. The latest order comes when the authorities are finding it difficult to rescue the 15 miners trapped since December 13 in an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya as there is no blueprint of the 355-feet well which has a "maze of rat holes".

NGT imposes Rs 100 crore fine on Meghalaya govt for failing to curb illegal mining

Meghalaya miners rescue: Supreme Court questions govt on its immediate action plan

The Supreme Court of India has expressed dissatisfaction with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-mining-tragedy-no-change-in-water-level-even-after-using-high-pressure-pumps-187811">Meghalaya government's measures</a>&nbsp;to rescue 15 miners stuck in a rat-hole mine in East Jaintia Hills.

The apex court has asked what steps the state government has taken to rescue the miners.

Meghalaya government had submitted before the top court stating, "the state is taking steps to rescue the trapped miners. 72 NDRF personnel, 14 Navy personnel and Coal India personnel are working since December 14," news agency ANI reported.

The Supreme Court asked "why are they not successful?"&nbsp;in rescuing the trapped miners after all the effort that is being undertaken.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Meghalayaminers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Meghalayaminers</a>: Meghalaya govt submits before SC, "the state is taking steps to rescue the trapped miners. 72 NDRF personnel, 14 Navy personnel&amp;Coal India personnel are working since Dec 14.". SC asks, “Then, why are they not successful?”, asks SC.
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Fifteen miners are trapped inside a 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills district since December 13 after water from a nearby river gushed in, puncturing the mine wall.&nbsp;

The divers from the Indian Navy and the NDRF on Wednesday could not go down the 370 foot-deep mine, in which 15 miners are trapped for nearly three weeks, even as draining out of a nearby abandoned mine they believe may be connected to it continued, officials said.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Meghalayaminers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Meghalayaminers</a>: Supreme Court tells Meghalaya government that we are not satisfied with the rescue operations. 15 miners are trapped in an illegal flooded coal mine in East Jaintia Hills since December 13 last year. <a href="https://t.co/DvXuAawxrc">pic.twitter.com/DvXuAawxrc</a>
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A high-powered submersible pump from Coal India Ltd will be put into operation Thursday in the abandoned mine, while more pumps from Odisha Fire and Disaster service are to be pressed into services in more abandoned mines, they said.

The divers from the Indian navy and the NDRF did not go down the main shaft to rescue the trapped miners because 'de-watering' was going on in the nearby mines and there was no significant decrease in water level there, operation spokesperson R Susngi told PTI, giving details of the operation on the 21st day of the disaster.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Meghalayaminers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Meghalayaminers</a>: Supreme Court says it’s a very serious situation and it’s a question of life and death of 15 coal miners who are trapped. <a href="https://t.co/DKJjSg8j1m">https://t.co/DKJjSg8j1m</a>
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The spokesperson said the services of the Navy and NDRF divers will be used once the water level at the main shaft decreases to about 100 feet from its current level of over 160 feet.

A high powered submersible pump from Coal India Ltd, which arrived here Tuesday night, is expected to be fully operational and begin pumping Thursday, Susngi said.

Susngi also said the Odisha team is expected to operate more pumps on Thursday in the nearby abandoned mine shafts in East Jaintia Hills district. District Authorities said there are at least 90 such abandoned mine shafts in the area and at present, they are all full of water.

The rescue officials believe that the nearby mines may be connected with the main shaft due to which water level is not going down there.

Five more pumps with similar power and functions from Coal India Ltd are on the way by road from their various centres across the country.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

The Supreme Court of India has expressed dissatisfaction with Meghalaya government's measures to rescue 15 miners stuck in a rat-hole mine in East Jaintia Hills.

The Supreme Court of India has expressed dissatisfaction with Meghalaya government's measures to rescue 15 miners stuck in a rat-hole mine in East Jaintia Hills. The apex court has asked what steps the state government has taken to rescue the miners. Meghalaya government had submitted before the top court stating, "the state is taking steps to rescue the trapped miners. 72 NDRF personnel, 14 Navy personnel and Coal India personnel are working since December 14," news agency ANI reported. The Supreme Court asked "why are they not successful?" in rescuing the trapped miners after all the effort that is being undertaken. #Meghalayaminers: Meghalaya govt submits before SC, "the state is taking steps to rescue the trapped miners. 72 NDRF personnel, 14 Navy personnel&Coal India personnel are working since Dec 14.". SC asks, “Then, why are they not successful?”, asks SC. — ANI (@ANI) January 3, 2019 × Fifteen miners are trapped inside a 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills district since December 13 after water from a nearby river gushed in, puncturing the mine wall. The divers from the Indian Navy and the NDRF on Wednesday could not go down the 370 foot-deep mine, in which 15 miners are trapped for nearly three weeks, even as draining out of a nearby abandoned mine they believe may be connected to it continued, officials said. #Meghalayaminers: Supreme Court tells Meghalaya government that we are not satisfied with the rescue operations. 15 miners are trapped in an illegal flooded coal mine in East Jaintia Hills since December 13 last year. pic.twitter.com/DvXuAawxrc — ANI (@ANI) January 3, 2019 × A high-powered submersible pump from Coal India Ltd will be put into operation Thursday in the abandoned mine, while more pumps from Odisha Fire and Disaster service are to be pressed into services in more abandoned mines, they said. The divers from the Indian navy and the NDRF did not go down the main shaft to rescue the trapped miners because 'de-watering' was going on in the nearby mines and there was no significant decrease in water level there, operation spokesperson R Susngi told PTI, giving details of the operation on the 21st day of the disaster. #Meghalayaminers: Supreme Court says it’s a very serious situation and it’s a question of life and death of 15 coal miners who are trapped. https://t.co/DKJjSg8j1m — ANI (@ANI) January 3, 2019 × The spokesperson said the services of the Navy and NDRF divers will be used once the water level at the main shaft decreases to about 100 feet from its current level of over 160 feet. A high powered submersible pump from Coal India Ltd, which arrived here Tuesday night, is expected to be fully operational and begin pumping Thursday, Susngi said. Susngi also said the Odisha team is expected to operate more pumps on Thursday in the nearby abandoned mine shafts in East Jaintia Hills district. District Authorities said there are at least 90 such abandoned mine shafts in the area and at present, they are all full of water. The rescue officials believe that the nearby mines may be connected with the main shaft due to which water level is not going down there. Five more pumps with similar power and functions from Coal India Ltd are on the way by road from their various centres across the country. (With inputs from PTI)

Not satisfied with steps taken for Meghalaya miners' rescue: Supreme Court slams state government 

Even as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-miners-rescue-technical-snag-in-pumps-hinder-rescue-operations-187708">high-pressure pumps </a>were deployed to drain out water from the inundated illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills for almost three hours on Monday afternoon there is no change in the water level.

More than a fortnight has passed since 15 miners get trapped inside an illegal coal mine here rescuers are struggling hard to pump out water from the inundated mine.

"The Indian <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-miners-rescue-navy-divers-want-water-level-reduced-to-facilitate-operation-187641">Navy Divers</a> along with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel went down inside the main shaft at 4.30 pm to check the water level under the main shaft and reported that the water level has not changed," an Odisha Fire Service official said.

The Odisha Fire services have stopped pumping the water from the nearby old shaft located about 500 meters from the main shaft.

"After three hours of pumping the water out from the old shaft located nearby it was found that the water level in the old Shaft descended only by 6 inches," said the Odisha Fire Service official.

The official told that only after 8 hours of pumping the water level can be determined.

On Sunday the divers of Indian Navy who went inside the inundated mine in search of the 15 trapped miners returned disappointed after diving up to 70 feet deep.

Along with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), 20-member team of Odisha Fire Service is engaged in rescue operations.

The Odisha Fire Service team is equipped with 15 high-pressure pumps to drain out water from the mine in which the miners are trapped.

As many as 15 miners have been trapped in a 370-feet deep illegal mine in Lumthari village since December 13, when the water from the nearby river Lytein flooded the mine.&nbsp;

Even as high-pressure pumps were deployed to drain out water from the inundated illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills for almost three hours on Monday afternoon there is no change in the water level.

Even as high-pressure pumps were deployed to drain out water from the inundated illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills for almost three hours on Monday afternoon there is no change in the water level. More than a fortnight has passed since 15 miners get trapped inside an illegal coal mine here rescuers are struggling hard to pump out water from the inundated mine. "The Indian Navy Divers along with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel went down inside the main shaft at 4.30 pm to check the water level under the main shaft and reported that the water level has not changed," an Odisha Fire Service official said. The Odisha Fire services have stopped pumping the water from the nearby old shaft located about 500 meters from the main shaft. "After three hours of pumping the water out from the old shaft located nearby it was found that the water level in the old Shaft descended only by 6 inches," said the Odisha Fire Service official. The official told that only after 8 hours of pumping the water level can be determined. On Sunday the divers of Indian Navy who went inside the inundated mine in search of the 15 trapped miners returned disappointed after diving up to 70 feet deep. Along with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), 20-member team of Odisha Fire Service is engaged in rescue operations. The Odisha Fire Service team is equipped with 15 high-pressure pumps to drain out water from the mine in which the miners are trapped. As many as 15 miners have been trapped in a 370-feet deep illegal mine in Lumthari village since December 13, when the water from the nearby river Lytein flooded the mine.

Meghalaya miners rescue: No change in water level even after using high-pressure pumps

Indian Navy divers on Monday again entered the flooded mine in Meghalaya, where 15 miners are trapped, and said the search would be feasible only after the water level inside the shaft is reduced to a safe diving limit of 30 metres.

On the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-ndrf-begin-joint-operation-navy-divers-to-make-fresh-attempt-today-187497">18th day of the operation</a>, the Navy divers stayed inside the shaft for three hours with a hi-tech gadget, Under Water Remotely Operated Vehicle (UWROV), and found visibility to be very poor, only one foot, operation spokesperson R Susngi said.

"The Indian Navy suggested that the administration dewater using pumps to reduce the water level inside the mine shaft till about 30 metres (98 feet) or within safe diving limit before they commence diving," Susngi said.

According to the Navy, all precautions are being taken to ensure that divers do not suffer from decompression sickness, which is usually experienced in a compressed environment as that of the mine in Lumthari village.

Fifteen miners are trapped inside a 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district since December 13 after water from a nearby river gushed in, puncturing the mine wall.

The depth of water from the surface till the bottom of the pit is expected to be over 150 feet, Navy officials said.

Six divers from the Navy and the NDRF went down the shaft of the mine Sunday and spent around two hours to trace the miners but could not detect anything.

However, Susngi said, during their three-hour stay inside the shaft on Monday, the divers found some wooden structures and a horizontal hole, commonly termed as "rat hole", with coal at its mouth.

The site is being cleared for the Odisha Fire Service to start pumping water from the main shaft, he said.

At least 10 high-powered pumps from the Odisha Fire Service, along with 21 personnel, have reached the spot Sunday.

There are at least 80-90 other abandoned mine shafts that are full of water near the affected mine.

Ace mining mishap expert Jaswant Singh Gill suspected that the mines in the area are inter-connected and the theory was also agreed to by locals.

A submersible pump from the Coal India Limited (CIL), which was expected to reach the mine by Sunday night, is yet to arrive till last reports came in.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Indian Navy divers on Monday again entered the flooded mine in Meghalaya, where 15 miners are trapped, and said the search would be feasible only after the water level inside the shaft is reduced to a safe diving limit of 30 metres.

Indian Navy divers on Monday again entered the flooded mine in Meghalaya, where 15 miners are trapped, and said the search would be feasible only after the water level inside the shaft is reduced to a safe diving limit of 30 metres. On the 18th day of the operation, the Navy divers stayed inside the shaft for three hours with a hi-tech gadget, Under Water Remotely Operated Vehicle (UWROV), and found visibility to be very poor, only one foot, operation spokesperson R Susngi said. "The Indian Navy suggested that the administration dewater using pumps to reduce the water level inside the mine shaft till about 30 metres (98 feet) or within safe diving limit before they commence diving," Susngi said. According to the Navy, all precautions are being taken to ensure that divers do not suffer from decompression sickness, which is usually experienced in a compressed environment as that of the mine in Lumthari village. Fifteen miners are trapped inside a 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district since December 13 after water from a nearby river gushed in, puncturing the mine wall. The depth of water from the surface till the bottom of the pit is expected to be over 150 feet, Navy officials said. Six divers from the Navy and the NDRF went down the shaft of the mine Sunday and spent around two hours to trace the miners but could not detect anything. However, Susngi said, during their three-hour stay inside the shaft on Monday, the divers found some wooden structures and a horizontal hole, commonly termed as "rat hole", with coal at its mouth. The site is being cleared for the Odisha Fire Service to start pumping water from the main shaft, he said. At least 10 high-powered pumps from the Odisha Fire Service, along with 21 personnel, have reached the spot Sunday. There are at least 80-90 other abandoned mine shafts that are full of water near the affected mine. Ace mining mishap expert Jaswant Singh Gill suspected that the mines in the area are inter-connected and the theory was also agreed to by locals. A submersible pump from the Coal India Limited (CIL), which was expected to reach the mine by Sunday night, is yet to arrive till last reports came in.

Meghalaya miners rescue: Navy divers want water level reduced before operation resumes

On the 18th day of rescue operation for 15 miners stuck in a rat-hole mine in Meghalaya, Navy divers will attempt diving again today with sophisticated equipment called drager.&nbsp;

Drager is a capsule which enables one to diver further, deeper. With the help of the equipment, the divers hope to reach the mouth of the mine where miners are believed to be stuck.&nbsp;

However, the chilling water of the river inside the mine is likely to pose a threat to the rescue operation.

Meanwhile, Odisha state department's high-capacity water pumps are stationed at the site to suck&nbsp;out water from the nearby shafts.&nbsp;

Coal India is expected to send special submersible pumps of 100 horsepower which can help in taking water out from the mines more effectively. The pumps may reach the site today or by Tuesday morning.&nbsp;

Navy <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-miners-rescue-navy-divers-return-without-any-trace-of-trapped-miners-187408">divers on Sunday</a> went inside the inundated mine in the search of the 15 trapped miners in East Jaintia Hills. The team returned disappointed after diving upto 70 feet deep, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

Despite the deep dive, the team was not able to reach the ground level. SK Singh, Assistant Commandant, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) said, "Divers have come out now. They have said that the depth of water is too much. They dived till 70 feet down but still have not been able to reach the ground level."

"Water is chilling which makes it difficult for divers to carry out the operation. We are trying our best. Tomorrow Navy Team will go inside with sophisticated equipment that they have. We are hoping for a better output tomorrow," said the official.

A 15-member diving team of the Navy from Vishakhapatnam arrived at Meghalaya on Saturday.

The Indian Air Force had also provided two aircraft to Meghalaya government for airlifting specialist personnel of the NDRF from Odisha for helping in the rescue operations. Union Defence Ministry has promised all help to the state government.

15 miners have been trapped in a 370-feet deep illegal mine in Lumthari village in Meghalaya since December 13. Water from the nearby river Lytein has flooded the mine making rescue operations more challenging.

On the 18th day of rescue operation for 15 miners stuck in a rat-hole mine in Meghalaya, Navy divers will attempt diving again today with sophisticated equipment called drager.

On the 18th day of rescue operation for 15 miners stuck in a rat-hole mine in Meghalaya, Navy divers will attempt diving again today with sophisticated equipment called drager. Drager is a capsule which enables one to diver further, deeper. With the help of the equipment, the divers hope to reach the mouth of the mine where miners are believed to be stuck. However, the chilling water of the river inside the mine is likely to pose a threat to the rescue operation. Meanwhile, Odisha state department's high-capacity water pumps are stationed at the site to suck out water from the nearby shafts. Coal India is expected to send special submersible pumps of 100 horsepower which can help in taking water out from the mines more effectively. The pumps may reach the site today or by Tuesday morning. Navy divers on Sunday went inside the inundated mine in the search of the 15 trapped miners in East Jaintia Hills. The team returned disappointed after diving upto 70 feet deep, news agency PTI reported. Despite the deep dive, the team was not able to reach the ground level. SK Singh, Assistant Commandant, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) said, "Divers have come out now. They have said that the depth of water is too much. They dived till 70 feet down but still have not been able to reach the ground level." "Water is chilling which makes it difficult for divers to carry out the operation. We are trying our best. Tomorrow Navy Team will go inside with sophisticated equipment that they have. We are hoping for a better output tomorrow," said the official. A 15-member diving team of the Navy from Vishakhapatnam arrived at Meghalaya on Saturday. The Indian Air Force had also provided two aircraft to Meghalaya government for airlifting specialist personnel of the NDRF from Odisha for helping in the rescue operations. Union Defence Ministry has promised all help to the state government. 15 miners have been trapped in a 370-feet deep illegal mine in Lumthari village in Meghalaya since December 13. Water from the nearby river Lytein has flooded the mine making rescue operations more challenging.

Meghalaya miners rescue: Navy divers to make another attempt today with specialised equipment

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The 2019 Lok Sabha elections will be a "public versus coalition" contest, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday while ridiculing the alliance proposed to be formed by anti-BJP parties.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-miners-rescue-technical-snag-in-pumps-hinder-rescue-operations-187708">Meghalaya miners rescue: Technical snag in pumps hinder rescue operations</a>

The multi-agency operation to rescue the miners trapped in a flooded quarry in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district was hindered after the high-powered pumps encountered technical snags on Tuesday, officials said.

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Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that she will be the "premier of all" Bangladeshis and her government's first priority would be to continue the economic reforms.

Prime Minister Hasina's Awami League and its allies won a landslide victory in the general elections on Sunday, bagging 288 of the total 299 seats which went to the polls.

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"Come back before sunrise, irrespective of the success or failure of the mission". This was the message of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Indian Army Special Forces' commandos who went across the Line of Control (LoC) on September 28, 2016 to carry out surgical strikes at terrorist camps in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir.

2019 Lok Sabha polls will be 'Janata versus Gathbandhan': PM Modi The 2019 Lok Sabha elections will be a "public versus coalition" contest, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday while ridiculing the alliance proposed to be formed by anti-BJP parties.

2019 Lok Sabha polls will be 'Janata versus Gathbandhan': PM Modi The 2019 Lok Sabha elections will be a "public versus coalition" contest, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday while ridiculing the alliance proposed to be formed by anti-BJP parties. Meghalaya miners rescue: Technical snag in pumps hinder rescue operations The multi-agency operation to rescue the miners trapped in a flooded quarry in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district was hindered after the high-powered pumps encountered technical snags on Tuesday, officials said. ATF price cut by 14.7%; costs less than petrol, diesel Jet fuel price Tuesday was cut by a record 14.7 per cent on the back of decline in international rates, making it cheaper than both petrol and diesel. The price of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) -- used to power airplanes -- was slashed by Rs 9,990 per kilolitre, or 14.7 per cent, to Rs 58,060.97 per kl, according to price notification issued by state-owned oil firms. I will be everyone's premier, first priority to continue economic reforms: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that she will be the "premier of all" Bangladeshis and her government's first priority would be to continue the economic reforms. Prime Minister Hasina's Awami League and its allies won a landslide victory in the general elections on Sunday, bagging 288 of the total 299 seats which went to the polls. Surgical strikes decision was a 'big risk' but I was more concerned about safety of soldiers: PM Modi "Come back before sunrise, irrespective of the success or failure of the mission". This was the message of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Indian Army Special Forces' commandos who went across the Line of Control (LoC) on September 28, 2016 to carry out surgical strikes at terrorist camps in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The multi-agency operation to rescue the miners trapped in a flooded quarry in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district was hindered after the high-powered pumps encountered technical snags on Tuesday, officials said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-miners-rescue-navy-divers-want-water-level-reduced-to-facilitate-operation-187641">Fifteen miners are trapped</a> inside a 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district since December 13 after water from a nearby river gushed in, puncturing the mine wall.

On the 20th day of the operation, Indian Navy personnel resumed with their diving using unmanned remotely operated vehicles with assistance of the NRDF in the main shaft, operation spokesperson R Susngi told PTI.

"There were some technical problems with the machines and the rescue operation was affected," he said.

The depth of the shaft is a little over 370 foot (113 metre), Susngi said quoting the Navy, and added that the water level inside the vertical shaft is at 161 foot (49 metre), he said.

Work is on to get the pumps ready. The fire services team from Odisha is also preparing to resume pumping from the two shafts nearby.

Susngi said there was slight dip in the water level in the mine shaft, but it was not significant enough.

The district administration is procuring a third crane which will be used in the abandoned mine shafts.

The multi-agency operation to rescue the miners trapped in a flooded quarry in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district was hindered after the high-powered pumps encountered technical snags on Tuesday, officials said.

The multi-agency operation to rescue the miners trapped in a flooded quarry in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district was hindered after the high-powered pumps encountered technical snags on Tuesday, officials said. Fifteen miners are trapped inside a 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district since December 13 after water from a nearby river gushed in, puncturing the mine wall. On the 20th day of the operation, Indian Navy personnel resumed with their diving using unmanned remotely operated vehicles with assistance of the NRDF in the main shaft, operation spokesperson R Susngi told PTI. "There were some technical problems with the machines and the rescue operation was affected," he said. The depth of the shaft is a little over 370 foot (113 metre), Susngi said quoting the Navy, and added that the water level inside the vertical shaft is at 161 foot (49 metre), he said. Work is on to get the pumps ready. The fire services team from Odisha is also preparing to resume pumping from the two shafts nearby. Susngi said there was slight dip in the water level in the mine shaft, but it was not significant enough. The district administration is procuring a third crane which will be used in the abandoned mine shafts.

Meghalaya miners rescue: Technical snag in pumps hinder rescue operations

The divers of Indian Navy who went inside the inundated mine in the search of the 15 trapped miners in East Jaintia Hills returned disappointed on Sunday after diving upto 70 feet deep.

Despite the deep dive, the team was not able to reach the ground level. SK Singh, Assistant Commandant, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) said, "Divers have come out now.&nbsp;They have said that the depth of water is too much. They dived till 70 feet down but still have not been able to reach the ground level."

"Water is chilling which makes it difficult for divers to carry out the operation. We are trying our best. Tomorrow Navy Team will go inside with sophisticated equipment that they have. We are hoping for a better output tomorrow," said the official.

Earlier in the day, Navy divers went inside the inundated coal mines to rescue 15 miners who are trapped inside since December 13. A 15-member diving team of the Navy from Vishakhapatnam arrived at Meghalaya on Saturday.

The diving team of the Navy which arrived on Saturday is equipped with specialised equipment, including high-pressure pumps and a re-compression chamber and remotely operated vehicles capable of searching underwater.

The Indian Air Force had also provided two aircraft to Meghalaya government for airlifting specialist personnel of the NDRF from Odisha for helping in the rescue operations. Union Defence Ministry has promised all help to the state government.

The 15 miners have been trapped in a 370-feet deep illegal mine in Lumthari village here since December 13, when the water from the nearby river Lytein flooded the mine.

The divers of Indian Navy who went inside the inundated mine in the search of the 15 trapped miners in East Jaintia Hills returned disappointed on Sunday after diving upto 70 feet deep.

The divers of Indian Navy who went inside the inundated mine in the search of the 15 trapped miners in East Jaintia Hills returned disappointed on Sunday after diving upto 70 feet deep. Despite the deep dive, the team was not able to reach the ground level. SK Singh, Assistant Commandant, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) said, "Divers have come out now. They have said that the depth of water is too much. They dived till 70 feet down but still have not been able to reach the ground level." "Water is chilling which makes it difficult for divers to carry out the operation. We are trying our best. Tomorrow Navy Team will go inside with sophisticated equipment that they have. We are hoping for a better output tomorrow," said the official. Earlier in the day, Navy divers went inside the inundated coal mines to rescue 15 miners who are trapped inside since December 13. A 15-member diving team of the Navy from Vishakhapatnam arrived at Meghalaya on Saturday. The diving team of the Navy which arrived on Saturday is equipped with specialised equipment, including high-pressure pumps and a re-compression chamber and remotely operated vehicles capable of searching underwater. The Indian Air Force had also provided two aircraft to Meghalaya government for airlifting specialist personnel of the NDRF from Odisha for helping in the rescue operations. Union Defence Ministry has promised all help to the state government. The 15 miners have been trapped in a 370-feet deep illegal mine in Lumthari village here since December 13, when the water from the nearby river Lytein flooded the mine.

Meghalaya miners rescue: Navy divers return without any trace of trapped miners

Meghalaya miners rescue: Navy divers attempt another mission

A joint operation by the Indian Navy and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) began on Monday morning with an aim to rescue 15 miners stuck in a rat-hole mine in Meghalaya.&nbsp;

The Indian Navy conducted a survey of the mine using Under Water Remotely Vehicle (UWROV) earlier today.&nbsp;

The Navy has requested Meghalaya district administration to assist in the dewatering of the mine to facilitate diving operations.&nbsp;

The NDRF is available on the site with two teams to provide all possible support and assistance to other agencies including the Navy.&nbsp;

On the 18th day of rescue operation, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-mine-rescue-navy-divers-to-make-another-attempt-today-with-specialised-equipment-187453">Navy divers will attempt diving again </a>today with sophisticated equipment called drager.&nbsp;

Drager is a capsule which enables one to diver further, deeper. With the help of the equipment, the divers hope to reach the mouth of the mine where miners are believed to be stuck.&nbsp;

However, the chilling water of the river inside the mine is likely to pose a threat to the rescue operation.

Meanwhile, Odisha state department's high-capacity water pumps are stationed at the site to suck out water from the nearby shafts.&nbsp;

Coal India is expected to send special submersible pumps of 100 horsepower which can help in taking water out from the mines more effectively. The pumps may reach the site today or by Tuesday morning.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-mine-rescue-navy-divers-to-make-another-attempt-today-with-specialised-equipment-187453">15 miners have been trapped</a> in a 370-feet deep illegal mine in Lumthari village in Meghalaya since December 13. Water from the nearby river Lytein has flooded the mine making rescue operations more challenging.

A joint operation by the Indian Navy and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) began on Monday morning with an aim to rescue 15 miners stuck in a rat-hole mine in Meghalaya.

A joint operation by the Indian Navy and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) began on Monday morning with an aim to rescue 15 miners stuck in a rat-hole mine in Meghalaya. The Indian Navy conducted a survey of the mine using Under Water Remotely Vehicle (UWROV) earlier today. The Navy has requested Meghalaya district administration to assist in the dewatering of the mine to facilitate diving operations. The NDRF is available on the site with two teams to provide all possible support and assistance to other agencies including the Navy. On the 18th day of rescue operation, Navy divers will attempt diving again today with sophisticated equipment called drager. Drager is a capsule which enables one to diver further, deeper. With the help of the equipment, the divers hope to reach the mouth of the mine where miners are believed to be stuck. However, the chilling water of the river inside the mine is likely to pose a threat to the rescue operation. Meanwhile, Odisha state department's high-capacity water pumps are stationed at the site to suck out water from the nearby shafts. Coal India is expected to send special submersible pumps of 100 horsepower which can help in taking water out from the mines more effectively. The pumps may reach the site today or by Tuesday morning. 15 miners have been trapped in a 370-feet deep illegal mine in Lumthari village in Meghalaya since December 13. Water from the nearby river Lytein has flooded the mine making rescue operations more challenging.

Meghalaya miners rescue: Indian Navy, NDRF begin joint operation; Navy divers to make fresh attempt

A team leader from the Indian Navy and NDRF personnel went inside a 370-foot-deep mine, where 15 miners are trapped, to ascertain the water level inside on Sunday afternoon, officials said.

The Navy divers and their equipment arrived at the site around 1.30 pm Sunday after which the Navy personnel started measuring the actual level of the water in the mine shaft.&nbsp;

The 10 pumps brought by the rescue team from Odisha have been kept on standby. Meanwhile, the divers have also been kept on standby, the officials said.

The Navy wanted to ascertain the water level as their divers can operate up to 100 feet in a closed container-type situation, a district official said.

Nearly 200 rescuers from various agencies are stationed at the site. The Odisha Fire Service team had brought 10 high-powered pumps with them.

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East Jaintia Hills: Visuals of operations underway to rescue the trapped miners. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Meghalayaminers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Meghalayaminers</a> <a href="https://t.co/6eaPArPqpd">pic.twitter.com/6eaPArPqpd</a>
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East Jaintia Hills district SP Sylvester Nongtynger said that at least two pumps will have to be lowered down to the water level inside the mine shaft to begin the operation.

Odisha Chief Fire Officer S Sethi said his team was tasked with pumping water out and they are ready for the job.

"Our only concern is that if we install the pumps now, the carbon exhaust may suffocate the entire mine shaft," Sethi said.

The remaining eight pumps will be placed at various locations identified in the area, he said.

One high-powered submersible pumps with an output capacity of 500 gallons per minute is arriving Sunday from CIL Ranchi, CIL Kolkata GM A K Bharali said.

Bharali, who arrived here four days ago, said that as soon as the generators and platforms are made available at the mine shaft, the pumping of water will begin.

Five more pumps from CIL Centres in Ranchi, Dhanbad and Asansol are on road and are expected to arrive anytime, he said.

A senior district official said a few pumps of Coal India Ltd have arrived in Guwahati and are expected to reach the site soon.

A team of 25 CIL personnel are at the site and survey teams are doing their job, Bharali said.

The miners have been trapped in the mine in the Ksan area of Lumthari village in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district since December 13, after water from the nearby Lytein river gushed into it.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is coordinating the rescue operations with the help of Navy, the NDMA and Coal India Ltd.

"The Navy divers have reported that they have the capacity to go a depth of 100 feet, whereas the NDRF divers can go to a depth of 30 feet," East Jaintia Hills district SP Sylvester Nongtyngerthe said.

A team leader from the Indian Navy and NDRF personnel went inside a 370-foot-deep mine, where 15 miners are trapped, to ascertain the water level inside on Sunday afternoon, officials said.

A team leader from the Indian Navy and NDRF personnel went inside a 370-foot-deep mine, where 15 miners are trapped, to ascertain the water level inside on Sunday afternoon, officials said. The Navy divers and their equipment arrived at the site around 1.30 pm Sunday after which the Navy personnel started measuring the actual level of the water in the mine shaft. The 10 pumps brought by the rescue team from Odisha have been kept on standby. Meanwhile, the divers have also been kept on standby, the officials said. The Navy wanted to ascertain the water level as their divers can operate up to 100 feet in a closed container-type situation, a district official said. Nearly 200 rescuers from various agencies are stationed at the site. The Odisha Fire Service team had brought 10 high-powered pumps with them. East Jaintia Hills: Visuals of operations underway to rescue the trapped miners. #Meghalayaminers pic.twitter.com/6eaPArPqpd — ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2018 × East Jaintia Hills district SP Sylvester Nongtynger said that at least two pumps will have to be lowered down to the water level inside the mine shaft to begin the operation. Odisha Chief Fire Officer S Sethi said his team was tasked with pumping water out and they are ready for the job. "Our only concern is that if we install the pumps now, the carbon exhaust may suffocate the entire mine shaft," Sethi said. The remaining eight pumps will be placed at various locations identified in the area, he said. One high-powered submersible pumps with an output capacity of 500 gallons per minute is arriving Sunday from CIL Ranchi, CIL Kolkata GM A K Bharali said. Bharali, who arrived here four days ago, said that as soon as the generators and platforms are made available at the mine shaft, the pumping of water will begin. Five more pumps from CIL Centres in Ranchi, Dhanbad and Asansol are on road and are expected to arrive anytime, he said. A senior district official said a few pumps of Coal India Ltd have arrived in Guwahati and are expected to reach the site soon. A team of 25 CIL personnel are at the site and survey teams are doing their job, Bharali said. The miners have been trapped in the mine in the Ksan area of Lumthari village in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district since December 13, after water from the nearby Lytein river gushed into it. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is coordinating the rescue operations with the help of Navy, the NDMA and Coal India Ltd. "The Navy divers have reported that they have the capacity to go a depth of 100 feet, whereas the NDRF divers can go to a depth of 30 feet," East Jaintia Hills district SP Sylvester Nongtyngerthe said.

Meghalaya mine rescue: Navy, NDRF personnel enter shaft to ascertain water level

As operation to rescue <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-miners-rescue-indian-navy-divers-arrive-at-site-join-operations-187204">15 trapped miners</a> continue at the 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills district, a survivor of the December 13 accident said Saturday there is no way the trapped miners will come out alive.

Sahib Ali, hailing from Assam's Chirang district, is one of the five men who narrowly escaped the flooding coal mine a fortnight ago.

He said four others who made it alive had fled to their homes in West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya.

"There were 22 of us who went in that day. I had worked for two weeks. Many are diggers who went to the farthest part of the mine. Some are cart pullers like me and we all work in a synchronised manner in small holes that barely fit a big man," Ali told PTI over phone Saturday.

He said four of those who escaped were the men who were tasked with loading coal into the metal box.

Recounting the December 13 nightmare, Ali said," all men started work early at about 5 am. By about 7 am, the entire mine was full of water."

"I was about 5 to 6 feet inside the mine pulling a cart full of coal. For some unknown reasons, I could feel a breeze inside the mine which was unusual. What followed was big sound of water gushing in. I barely made it to the opening of the pit," Ali said.

"There is no way the trapped men will be alive. How long can a person hold his breath underwater?" he added.

Going by Ali's story, at least 17 people are still trapped inside the illegal coal pit as only five narrowly escaped the flooding mine out of the 22 men who went in.

"My only hope is to see that their bodies pulled out and last rites be carried out as per traditions," a sobbing Ali said.

On December 13, he spent the entire day at the flooded mine and slept in a nearby active coal mine in the night, he said.

The ill-fated mine is roughly 370 feet and as of December 29, the rescue officials have calculated that about 170 feet is full of water, an NDRF official said.

In Lumthari village where Ali and his fellow miners went to work, coal is found roughly between 200-500 feet underneath the ground.

Asked on what prompted him to go and work in the dangerous coal mines of Meghalaya, Ali said the mines promised a big amount of money at the end of the week.

"I earn between Rs 800-1500 on a full day of work at the mine. I had in mind that I will work for sometime only and return home," he said.

Family members of at least 7 trapped miners, hailing from West Garo Hills district of the state, have already given up hope to rescue their kins alive and requested the government to retrieve the bodies for the last rites.

Shohor Ali who hails from Magurmari village in West Garo Hills district and whose son, brother and son-in-law were among the victims at Lumthari village, told PTI, "We have lost all hope to see them alive. I just wanted the authorities to help retrieve the dead bodies for their last rites."

The three were allegedly lured to the coal mines at Lumthari as it involves bigger wages and on an average each miner gets paid Rs 2000 per day, he said.

Kins of four other victims also did not sound optimistic of seeing their dear ones alive.

Shohar Ali was among the first people who came to know of the accident when he received a call within minutes when the mine was flooded.

One of the 5 persons who narrowly escaped the flooded mine called him up to inform of the accident.

Ali, in turn, called up his MLA (Rajabala constituency) Azad Aman to find out about the accident and who later called up the SP of the district to verify.

It took the police several hours before finally locating the place where the accident took place, the MLA said.

In all, 7 persons from Rajabala in West Garo Hills district, 3 from Lumthari village itself, and the other 5 from Assam have been confirmed to have been trapped inside the ill-fated mine.

The state government had announced a Rs 1 lakh interim relief on December 22 to the family members of each of the 15 miners trapped and feared dead, 10 days after the accident took place.

As operation to rescue 15 trapped miners continue at the 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills district, a survivor of the December 13 accident said Saturday there is no way the trapped miners will come out alive.

As operation to rescue 15 trapped miners continue at the 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills district, a survivor of the December 13 accident said Saturday there is no way the trapped miners will come out alive. Sahib Ali, hailing from Assam's Chirang district, is one of the five men who narrowly escaped the flooding coal mine a fortnight ago. He said four others who made it alive had fled to their homes in West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya. "There were 22 of us who went in that day. I had worked for two weeks. Many are diggers who went to the farthest part of the mine. Some are cart pullers like me and we all work in a synchronised manner in small holes that barely fit a big man," Ali told PTI over phone Saturday. He said four of those who escaped were the men who were tasked with loading coal into the metal box. Recounting the December 13 nightmare, Ali said," all men started work early at about 5 am. By about 7 am, the entire mine was full of water." "I was about 5 to 6 feet inside the mine pulling a cart full of coal. For some unknown reasons, I could feel a breeze inside the mine which was unusual. What followed was big sound of water gushing in. I barely made it to the opening of the pit," Ali said. "There is no way the trapped men will be alive. How long can a person hold his breath underwater?" he added. Going by Ali's story, at least 17 people are still trapped inside the illegal coal pit as only five narrowly escaped the flooding mine out of the 22 men who went in. "My only hope is to see that their bodies pulled out and last rites be carried out as per traditions," a sobbing Ali said. On December 13, he spent the entire day at the flooded mine and slept in a nearby active coal mine in the night, he said. The ill-fated mine is roughly 370 feet and as of December 29, the rescue officials have calculated that about 170 feet is full of water, an NDRF official said. In Lumthari village where Ali and his fellow miners went to work, coal is found roughly between 200-500 feet underneath the ground. Asked on what prompted him to go and work in the dangerous coal mines of Meghalaya, Ali said the mines promised a big amount of money at the end of the week. "I earn between Rs 800-1500 on a full day of work at the mine. I had in mind that I will work for sometime only and return home," he said. Family members of at least 7 trapped miners, hailing from West Garo Hills district of the state, have already given up hope to rescue their kins alive and requested the government to retrieve the bodies for the last rites. Shohor Ali who hails from Magurmari village in West Garo Hills district and whose son, brother and son-in-law were among the victims at Lumthari village, told PTI, "We have lost all hope to see them alive. I just wanted the authorities to help retrieve the dead bodies for their last rites." The three were allegedly lured to the coal mines at Lumthari as it involves bigger wages and on an average each miner gets paid Rs 2000 per day, he said. Kins of four other victims also did not sound optimistic of seeing their dear ones alive. Shohar Ali was among the first people who came to know of the accident when he received a call within minutes when the mine was flooded. One of the 5 persons who narrowly escaped the flooded mine called him up to inform of the accident. Ali, in turn, called up his MLA (Rajabala constituency) Azad Aman to find out about the accident and who later called up the SP of the district to verify. It took the police several hours before finally locating the place where the accident took place, the MLA said. In all, 7 persons from Rajabala in West Garo Hills district, 3 from Lumthari village itself, and the other 5 from Assam have been confirmed to have been trapped inside the ill-fated mine. The state government had announced a Rs 1 lakh interim relief on December 22 to the family members of each of the 15 miners trapped and feared dead, 10 days after the accident took place.

Meghalaya: Trapped miners won't come out alive, says survivor who escaped on Dec 13

The rescue team in Meghalaya's Khelerihaat has recovered three helmets in an effort to pull out 15 miners trapped in a rat-hole mine since December 13, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

NDRF Assistant Commandant SK Singh told ANI, "three helmets have been recovered." No update on the miners has been received so far.&nbsp;

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East Jaintia Hills in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Meghalaya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Meghalaya</a>: Operations to rescue 13 trapped miners underway in Khelerihaat for the 18th day. SK Singh, Asst Commandant NDRF, says "three helmets have been recovered" (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/Z1jDbOpP31">pic.twitter.com/Z1jDbOpP31</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1078874154781339650?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The development comes shortly after the Indian Air Force on Friday provided two aircraft to the Meghalaya government for airlifting specialist personnel of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) from Odisha for helping in the rescue operations, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

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East Jaintia Hills in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Meghalaya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Meghalaya</a>: Operations to rescue 13 trapped miners underway for the 18th day. Three helmets have been recovered <a href="https://t.co/ew4pElcNtg">pic.twitter.com/ew4pElcNtg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1078878419063054343?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Indian <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-forces-super-hercules-plane-joins-rescue-ops-in-meghalaya-high-power-pumps-airlifted-186965">Air Force joined the rescue operation</a> and airlifted 10 pumps from Bhubaneswar. Its personnel have landed in Guwahati, 270 kilometres away from the 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine, they said.&nbsp;Indian Navy divers are also expected to join the rescue operations on today.&nbsp;

A 20-member team of the Odisha Fire Services also left for Shillong with equipment, including high-powered pumps, high-tech equipment and gadgets on Friday.

The Navy spokesman said in a tweet that a 15-member diving team from Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh will reach the site in the remote Lumthari village in East Jaintia Hills district Saturday morning.

"The team is carrying specialised diving equipment including a re-compression chamber and remotely operated vehicles capable of searching underwater," he said.

Pump manufacturing company Kirloskar Brothers Ltd and Coal India were jointly moving <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/18-high-powered-pumps-being-moved-to-meghalaya-mining-site-187047">18 high-powered pumps</a> to drain water out of the 37-foot-deep mine. A team of surveyers from the two companies also conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the situation.

15 miners have been trapped in a 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in the Ksan area of Lumthari village in Meghalaya since December 13. The illegal mine is reported to have been flooded, exhibiting bleak chances of miners' survival.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The rescue team in Meghalaya's Khelerihaat has recovered three helmets in an effort to pull out 15 miners trapped in a rat-hole mine since December 13, news agency ANI reported.

The rescue team in Meghalaya's Khelerihaat has recovered three helmets in an effort to pull out 15 miners trapped in a rat-hole mine since December 13, news agency ANI reported. NDRF Assistant Commandant SK Singh told ANI, "three helmets have been recovered." No update on the miners has been received so far. East Jaintia Hills in #Meghalaya: Operations to rescue 13 trapped miners underway in Khelerihaat for the 18th day. SK Singh, Asst Commandant NDRF, says "three helmets have been recovered" (file pic) pic.twitter.com/Z1jDbOpP31 — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2018 × The development comes shortly after the Indian Air Force on Friday provided two aircraft to the Meghalaya government for airlifting specialist personnel of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) from Odisha for helping in the rescue operations, news agency PTI reported. East Jaintia Hills in #Meghalaya: Operations to rescue 13 trapped miners underway for the 18th day. Three helmets have been recovered pic.twitter.com/ew4pElcNtg — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2018 × The Indian Air Force joined the rescue operation and airlifted 10 pumps from Bhubaneswar. Its personnel have landed in Guwahati, 270 kilometres away from the 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine, they said. Indian Navy divers are also expected to join the rescue operations on today. A 20-member team of the Odisha Fire Services also left for Shillong with equipment, including high-powered pumps, high-tech equipment and gadgets on Friday. The Navy spokesman said in a tweet that a 15-member diving team from Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh will reach the site in the remote Lumthari village in East Jaintia Hills district Saturday morning. "The team is carrying specialised diving equipment including a re-compression chamber and remotely operated vehicles capable of searching underwater," he said. Pump manufacturing company Kirloskar Brothers Ltd and Coal India were jointly moving 18 high-powered pumps to drain water out of the 37-foot-deep mine. A team of surveyers from the two companies also conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the situation. 15 miners have been trapped in a 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in the Ksan area of Lumthari village in Meghalaya since December 13. The illegal mine is reported to have been flooded, exhibiting bleak chances of miners' survival. (With inputs from agencies)

Meghalaya miners rescue: 'Three helmets have been recovered,' says NDRF

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