Rescue operations are intensifying in the Umrangso area of Assam, where eight workers have been trapped in a coal mine since its collapse on January 6. The operation, involving the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, NDRF, SDRF, and other agencies, is facing significant obstacles due to hazardous underground conditions and increasing water levels.

In a critical move to assist the rescue efforts, Coal India has deployed a 500 GPM (gallons per minute) pump from Nagpur to dewater the mine. The pump is currently being installed, along with two generators to ensure its continuous operation. The installation process is expected to take 24 hours, with teams working in three shifts.

K Mere, General Manager of Northeastern Coal Field, stated, “We have brought a 500 GPM pump from Nagpur, and it is being installed. The pump will help remove 500 gallons of water per minute, but the exact situation underground remains unclear.”

So far, only one body has been recovered from the mine. The rising water levels continue to hamper rescue efforts, but specialized diving teams from the Army and Navy have been deployed to assist in the search for the trapped workers.

Inspector Roshan Kumar Singh, NDRF team commander, confirmed that the water levels have increased despite efforts to pump out the water. The ongoing situation is making the rescue operation increasingly difficult, and additional expert support is being brought in to navigate the challenging underground conditions.