New Delhi, Jan 07, 2025 -
The Indian Army has swiftly launched a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) mission following a tragic incident at a coal mine in the remote "3 Kilo" area of Dima Hasao, near the Assam-Meghalaya border. The mine flooded, trapping 15 to 20 miners.
The operation was initiated following a request for assistance from Assam's Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma.
In response to the incident, the Assam State Administration urgently sought the Army's assistance, with a formal request forwarded by the Home Secretary of Assam.
At 6:30 AM on Tuesday, a Pathfinder Team from 32 Assam Rifles reached the incident site to conduct an initial assessment. An Engineer Task Force (ETF), led by the Commanding Officer of an Engineer Regiment, along with PARA diving specialists, has also arrived at the “Kilo 3” Police Outpost and is heading to the mine site.
Additional teams from Assam Rifles and the Engineer Task Force are en route to reinforce the ongoing rescue efforts. A helicopter, carrying senior officials including the Chief Engineer of Dimapur-based Corps HQ, Inspector General of Assam Rifles (East), and the CO of the PARA unit, is conducting aerial reconnaissance to assess the situation and guide further operations.
Efforts are being made to assist the civil authorities in expediting the rescue operations and ensuring the safety of those affected. Due to the remote location and challenging infrastructure, this mission is being carried out under difficult conditions.