E-Paper
3 killed in Dhanbad land subsidence; protests over negligence
Three people died in a house collapse due to land subsidence in Dhanbad, sparking protests over illegal mining. Tensions escalated with stone-pelting incidents.
Three persons were killed after a house caved in due to land subsidence in Tandabari basti under Sonardih OP area of Katras in Dhanbad district on Tuesday evening, triggering panic and protests among residents, people aware of the development said on Wednesday.
The deceased were identified as Manohar Uraon (60), his daughter Geeta Kumari (17), and a neighbour, Sarita Devi (45). The incident occurred around 8 pm when the victims were inside the house. According to locals, Sarita Devi had come to visit the family when the ground suddenly gave way, leaving them trapped under the debris.
A rescue operation was launched later in the night, and continued till around 2:30–3:00 am, when all three bodies were recovered. Family members alleged that the delay in initiating rescue efforts reduced chances of survival.
The incident led to widespread anger in the locality, with residents blaming illegal coal mining and underground fire zones for weakening the land. Soon after the incident villagers blocked the Rajganj–Katras road, causing heavy traffic congestion for hours.
Tensions escalated on Wednesday when BCCL officials, including Director (Technical) Sanjay Singh and Area-III GM V. Vijay Kumar, visited the site. Agitating residents surrounded the officials, demanding compensation and rehabilitation. The protest turned violent, with incidents of stone-pelting reported, damaging vehicles and leaving some personnel injured. CISF personnel intervened to bring the situation under control.
Meanwhile, the district administration has initiated relief measures and monitoring of the situation. Deputy Development Commissioner Sanni Raj, during a review meeting, directed officials to ensure immediate assistance to affected families.
