Dhanbad Deputy Commissioner Aditya Ranjan has initiated a high-level investigation into the toxic gas emissions reported from abandoned underground mines in the Putki Balihari-Kenduadih belt of Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), in Jharkhand after the deaths of two women triggered panic across the locality.
The DC has also instructed officials to immediately evacuate families living in the danger zone and shift them to safer shelters without delay.
The crisis escalated when dangerous concentrations of carbon monoxide surfaced in the residential pockets situated above the closed mines, leading to the death of Priyanka Devi on Wednesday, followed by another victim, Lalita Devi, the next morning.
Doctors said the exact cause will be clear only after post-mortem reports are received. In addition, several residents have taken ill, intensifying the public’s fear.
Taking note of the gravity of the situation, Ranjan convened an emergency review meeting with senior representatives of BCCL, the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS), the Health Department, Disaster Management and JRDA.
He directed that a comprehensive inquiry be carried out under the Mines Act and Disaster Management norms to determine how the leak occurred, what gaps existed in safety protocols and which agencies failed to respond effectively. “Responsibility will be fixed, and strict action will follow,” the DC said.
He pointed out that although rescue efforts began promptly, poor coordination and a lack of seriousness among certain agencies hampered the initial response.
Meanwhile, public anger spilled onto the streets. On Thursday morning, residents distressed by the gas leak and frequent health complaints blocked the Dhanbad-Ranchi Road for nearly four hours, burning tyres and raising slogans against BCCL and the district authorities.
Their key demands included immediate and secure rehabilitation, closure of the gas source and compensation for the families of the deceased. The blockade was finally lifted after officials held lengthy discussions with the agitating locals.
Amid the mounting concerns, the administration estimates that over a thousand families may need to be moved from the vulnerable areas. The General Manager of BCCL’s Putki Balihari Area has been told to establish temporary tent accommodations at once. Essential supplies such as food, water, blankets and emergency medical support are being arranged on priority.
BCCL officials said scientific assessment of the gas pockets is underway and soil-filling work has started to prevent further seepage. Announcements are being made across affected localities urging residents to leave their homes until the situation stabilises.
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