On January 6, 2025, several workers became trapped for over 12 hours in a coal “rat-hole” mine in Dima Hasao district, Assam. The mine was flooded, prompting ongoing rescue operations. Two motor pumps are currently at work to remove water from the mine, which is reportedly several hundred feet deep. Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has stated that both the National Disaster Relief Force and the State Disaster Relief Force are on-site to assist in the rescue. Additionally, the Army’s help has been solicited.
What is Rat-Hole Mining?
Rat-hole mining is a traditional method used to extract coal from narrow seams. This technique is particularly common in Meghalaya. The term “rat hole” describes the small pits dug into the earth, which are just large enough for a miner to enter. Miners typically descend into these pits using ropes or bamboo ladders to reach the coal seams. They employ basic tools like pickaxes, shovels, and baskets for manual extraction.
Types of Rat-Hole Mining
There are two main types of rat-hole mining – side-cutting and box-cutting. In side-cutting, miners dig narrow tunnels on hill slopes until they locate the coal seam, which is often less than 2 metres thick. Box-cutting involves creating a rectangular opening, ranging from 10 to 100 square metres, before digging a vertical pit that can extend 100 to 400 feet deep. Once the coal seam is identified, horizontal tunnels are dug to facilitate coal extraction.
Environmental and Safety Concerns
Rat-hole mining presents numerous safety and environmental risks. These mines are typically unregulated, lacking essential safety measures such as proper ventilation and structural support. Workers often do not have access to safety gear. The mining process leads to land degradation, deforestation, and water pollution. Critics have condemned the practice due to hazardous working conditions and frequent accidents, resulting in injuries and fatalities. Despite regulatory efforts, rat-hole mining continues due to economic pressures and limited alternative livelihoods for local communities.
Legal Status of Rat-Hole Mining
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) banned rat-hole mining in 2014, reaffirming the ban in 2015. The tribunal noted the numerous fatalities resulting from flooding in mining areas during the rainy season. The order specifically targeted Meghalaya, where this mining technique has been widespread. The state government subsequently appealed the NGT’s decision in the Supreme Court.
- Rat-hole mining is primarily found in Meghalaya.
- The NGT banned rat-hole mining due to safety concerns.
- Side-cutting and box-cutting are two main mining techniques.
- The coal seams are often less than 2 metres thick.
- Unregulated mining leads to severe environmental degradation.
Current Rescue Efforts
Rescue operations are ongoing, with multiple agencies involved. The slow pace of the operation has raised concerns among families of the trapped workers. The presence of water in the mine complicates the rescue, making it imperative to pump out water efficiently. Authorities are hopeful for a successful outcome as they continue to work diligently on the site.
