SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, Nov 8: Panic gripped residents near Chaitudih Colliery of Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) under Katras police station, around 28 km from the district headquarters, after high flames and thick smoke were seen billowing from a closed mine on Saturday morning.
The continuous emission of smoke and fire since Friday evening had completely engulfed the area by morning, causing widespread alarm among locals. The Lakarka residential colony of BCCL, located barely 400 metres from the site, was directly affected by the intense heat and smoke.
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Closed mine re-ignites after decades
According to reports, the Chaitudih underground mines have been closed since 1997–98 due to the threat of underground fires. On Friday evening, residents noticed thin smoke emerging from the entrance of the abandoned mine (locally known as Chanak).
However, by around 7 a.m. on Saturday, the situation worsened as the underground blaze intensified, resulting in high flames and dense smoke that covered the surrounding area.
Emergency action by BCCL management
Upon receiving information, the colliery management immediately launched an operation to control the fire. Two dumpers were deployed to fill the area where flames and smoke were emerging.
Abhishek Kumar, Safety Officer of BCCL’s Katras Area, who was supervising the operation, told media persons that the underground fire had likely gained oxygen, causing the sudden flare-up.
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Residents seek urgent intervention
As the fire spread, frightened residents from nearby colonies alerted the Katras Colliery management and local police station for assistance. The fire-control operation was launched at around 8:30 a.m. to contain the flames and prevent further spread.
Authorities are continuing efforts to cool the affected area and assess the extent of the underground blaze.
