January 8, 2025: A multi-agency rescue operation is underway in the Dima Hasao district of Assam, where nine miners remain trapped following a water surge in a coal quarry believed to be operating illegally. Responding swiftly to an urgent call for assistance, the Indian Navy deployed a specialized team from Visakhapatnam on January 7, 2025, in a coordinated airlift by the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The Navy team, comprising one officer and 11 sailors, includes highly trained Clearance Divers skilled in deep-water diving and recovery operations. Equipped with advanced tools such as deep diving gear and underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), the team is collaborating closely with the Indian Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local authorities to maximize rescue efforts.

In a grim development, a body was recovered from the 340-foot-deep mine two days after the incident. Efforts to locate and rescue the remaining workers—identified as Ganga Bahadur Shreth, Hussain Ali, Jakir Hussain, Sarpa Barman, Mustafa Seikh, Khushi Mohan Rai, Sanjit Sarkar, Lijan Magar, and Sarat Goyary—continue amidst challenging conditions.

The water level inside the mine has risen to approximately 100 feet, severely complicating operations. Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have brought de-watering pumps to the site, while a high-capacity pump from ONGC is on standby, awaiting favorable weather for deployment by an MI-17 helicopter.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is closely monitoring the situation. Coal Minister G. Kishan Reddy has assured support, with a specialized rescue team from Coal India set to join the operation. Meanwhile, local police have arrested one individual in connection with the suspected illegal mining activities.

This tragedy has highlighted the hazardous working conditions faced by laborers in unregulated mining operations. Families of the trapped miners and local communities remain on edge as rescue teams race against time to bring their loved ones to safety.

The Indian Navy reiterated its commitment to providing prompt assistance in times of crisis, demonstrating resolve to protect lives and support the nation during emergencies.