SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, Dec 6: Experts from IIT ISM and the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) have recommended the immediate relocation of residents from Rajput Basti in Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) Putki Balihari Colliery Area after carbon monoxide (CO) levels were found to be extremely hazardous in some homes.
The experts reported that CO levels reached 1,500 PPM in certain houses—far above the safe threshold—and said that relocation is the only effective solution to protect lives.
Dangerous levels of carbon monoxide start at 50 PPM, with symptoms such as headaches appearing at 200 PPM. At 800 PPM, individuals may experience dizziness, nausea, and unconsciousness.
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Area Assessment and Gas Emission Details
During an assessment of the affected area alongside Deputy Commissioner (DC) Aditya Ranjan, experts recorded CO levels of 1,500 PPM in some homes, while others showed readings between 500 PPM and 1,000 PPM.
The emission of carbon monoxide has been reported since Wednesday, with fatalities and hospitalizations already reported.
Two women have died due to the gas, and over two dozen residents are undergoing treatment at Central Hospital Dhanbad and the BCCL Regional Hospital.
The gas has been detected at three locations: Rajput Basti, Masjid Muhalla, and Area No-5, all of which house approximately 1,000 residents.
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Authorities Urge Immediate Relocation
Following the site visit, DC Aditya Ranjan stated that residents are living under extremely dangerous conditions. He highlighted that this has been a long-standing issue, which, due to various reasons, has not been addressed earlier through relocation.
“I have urged the residents to move to safe areas immediately. Arrangements have been made at Belagadia and Karmatand. In the meantime, temporary tent facilities have been provided until the situation normalizes,” DC Ranjan said.
