Asansol (West Bengal) [India], May 14 (ANI): One person died and several others were injured on Thursday after a sudden air blast at an Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) coal mine led to the collapse of a coal shaft in West Bengal’s Asansol region.
According to ECL Safety Manager Binod Singh, preliminary findings suggest a possible lapse in mine management. “Prime facie reports point to a stowing void. It seems to be a management lapse,” he said.
He further added, “Such a huge air blast despite a hydraulic stowing is beyond my imagination… One person has died. His body is kept here… Four to five people are critically injured… Everyone has been rescued.”
Calling for a detailed probe, he said, “Prime facie, it seems like a serious lapse by the management… There should be a complete investigation into this.”
BJP leader Debtanu Bhattacharya also confirmed the incident and said, “A labourer has died… Among the injured, two are officers. I have spoken to the CMD (Chairman and Managing Director). He said that this accident occurred due to an air blast… I will speak to the coal minister to learn the exact reasons…”
Further details are awaited. (ANI)