The Embassy of Nepal in New Delhi on Friday urged its citizens to exercise caution before taking up overseas employment after nine Nepali nationals were among 31 people killed in a coal mine explosion in Meghalaya on February 5. The blast occurred at an allegedly illegal rat-hole mine in Thangskai in East Jaintia Hills district.
Officials said a total of 31 people died in the incident and several victims were migrant workers; seven other Nepali nationals were injured and are receiving treatment at a local hospital. The embassy expressed “deepest condolences to the bereaved families,” and prayed for the eternal peace of the deceased and a speedy recovery for the injured.
In an official statement, the embassy said it is coordinating closely with India’s Ministry of External Affairs, local authorities and police to arrange medical treatment, essential services and compensation for the families of the deceased and injured. Families seeking help have been asked to contact the mission through a dedicated helpline.
The embassy highlighted that the mine was allegedly operating illegally, a factor that complicates access to rescue services, compensation and other support when accidents occur at unauthorised workplaces. It warned that illegal operations often lack safety measures and regulatory oversight.
Advising Nepali citizens considering work abroad, the mission said they should “obtain complete information about the employer, salary, and facilities, and complete all necessary formalities.” It also cautioned against accepting offers from strangers or intermediaries without proper documentation.
The tragedy has renewed scrutiny of safety standards and regulatory oversight in Meghalaya’s coal mining sector, particularly the persistent practice of banned rat-hole mining in remote areas.
Original Source: https://nenow.in/neighbour/nepal/nepal-embassy-issues-advisory-after-meghalaya-coal-mine-explosion-kills-nine-nationals.html
Category: Meghalaya,Neighbour,Nepal,Northeast News,Top News
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Publish Date: 2026-02-13 15:10:00
