West Bengal News: A major accident took place during coal theft in Kulti area of Paschim Bardhaman, West Bengal. There was a sudden landslide in the open mine, due to which three people died on the spot. After the incident, there was chaos in the area and a large number of people gathered. At the same time, amidst this incident, the political stir has also intensified due to the raid conducted by ED on the house and office of IPAC chief Prateek Jain.
How did the accident happen?
According to local sources, coal was being extracted illegally in the dark of night from the open mine located in Badira area of Kulti. During this time, a large part of the mine caved in and many people who were extracting coal got buried inside.
As soon as BCCL officials and Kulti police station got information about the incident, they immediately reached the spot. Rescue work was started by BCCL by deploying JCB machine. Officials are also fearing that more people may also be trapped in the mine.
What are the claims of the local people?
Local residents say that illegal coal smuggling activities have been going on in this area for a long time. At night, the coal stolen from the mines is sent out through bikes, cycles and bullock carts.
Such incidents have happened before also. Last year, one worker had died and four people were seriously injured due to sudden water entry in Shyamsundar Colliery of Andal. Local people say that the negligence of the administration and failure to stop illegal activities are the major reasons for such accidents.
Increased commotion amid ED raid
Along with this accident, the ED raid on the house and office of IPEC chief Prateek Jain has further increased the political temperature. ED alleges that Hawala and coal smuggling money may be related to IPAC. In such a situation, political rhetoric has started on this incident of death due to coal theft.
Local people are very scared after the mine accident. The police and BCCL team are trying to find out how many people may still be trapped in the mine. The bodies have been sent for post-mortem and investigation into the case is ongoing.
