Safety concerns are heightened in Chhattisgarh following an explosion at the SECL Chirmiri open cast coal mine in the Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur district. The incident on Monday afternoon injured three workers, including two women, who were preparing for a planned detonation. The blast occurred as the blasting gang was positioning explosives on the coal bed, leading to a premature detonation. Flying rock fragments hit the workers and vehicles within the mine area. The injured were swiftly admitted to the SECL regional hospital in Kurasia. Medical updates indicate that all three have sustained minor injuries and are in stable condition, with plans for their early release. The precise reason for the blast is currently under investigation, with preliminary theories suggesting a technical defect. A comprehensive probe is being conducted to rule out any procedural lapses or human errors. Safety protocols are being reassessed, and operations at the site remain temporarily halted to ensure the well-being of all personnel. This incident underscores the critical importance of stringent safety measures in mining.
