An explosion at SECL’s Chirmiri open cast coal mine in Chhattisgarh’s Manendragarh region has led to injuries for three mine workers, two of whom are women. The incident took place on Monday during the critical phase of preparing for a planned blasting operation. A group of workers was reportedly on the coal bed to set explosives when an unexpected detonation occurred. The force of the blast propelled rock fragments, hitting the workers and nearby mining equipment. Immediate medical attention was provided, with the injured being rushed to the SECL regional hospital in Kurasia. They are currently reported to be out of danger and receiving treatment for minor injuries. SECL officials have indicated that the blast may have been caused by a technical fault, but a comprehensive investigation is in progress to uncover the definitive cause. Safety measures and operational procedures are being re-evaluated at the mine, which has temporarily ceased operations to ensure the well-being of its workforce.
