SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, Dec 13: Jharkhand Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, accompanied by a high-level team, on Saturday inspected the gas leakage sites in the Putki Balihari Colliery area of Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) in Kenduadih.
The visit included discussions with affected residents and concerned officials to assess the current situation and explore future safety measures.
High-Level Team Assesses Situation
The Chief Secretary, acting on the directive of the Chief Minister, was joined by Acting DGP Tadasha Mishra, BCCL Chairman-cum-Managing Director Manoj Agrawal, Dhanbad Deputy Commissioner Aditya Ranjan, and Senior Superintendent of Police Prabhat Kumar.
Avinash Kumar described the situation as serious but noted that it is linked to natural factors that cannot be entirely controlled. A scientific study is underway to examine all contributing elements.
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Govt Plans for Resident Safety
“The state government is committed to resolving the problem. If relocation of residents becomes necessary to ensure their safety, all stakeholders—including the state and central governments, BCCL management, district administration, and local MPs and MLAs—will work together to implement a solution,” the Chief Secretary said.
He also met with residents living in the high-risk areas to hear their concerns and suggestions.
Support for Displaced Families
Avinash Kumar visited Belgadia Township, where displaced families are currently housed, and held discussions with BCCL and district administration officials to improve facilities there. The goal is to make the township more accommodating for residents from the fire-prone zone.
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Impact of Gas Leakage
The unauthorised colliery area has been emitting carbon monoxide for the past 12 days. The leak has claimed the lives of two women and caused illness among more than 40 residents. Despite the hazardous conditions, many residents have refused to relocate.
BCCL has established a temporary shelter camp with food and lodging arrangements for those willing to move to safer locations.
