Toxic Gas Leak from Abandoned Dhanbad Coal Mine Claims Two Lives, Triggers Mass Evacuation

Dhanbad- A toxic gas leak from an underground fire in a long-abandoned coal mine in Kenduadih, Dhanbad, has resulted in the deaths of two women and left nearly 20 others sick over the last two days, officials confirmed on Thursday.

Close to 10,000 people living in Rajput Basti, Masjid Mohalla, Officer Colony and nearby areas have been affected, prompting many families to escape their homes. Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) has been making continuous announcements urging people to vacate the danger zone and has set up two temporary relief camps for evacuees.

The leak began on Wednesday near the Children’s Park in Kenduadih. Residents experienced severe eye burning, breathing difficulties and other symptoms, forcing several hospitalisations.

The deceased have been identified as Priyanka Devi, who died on Wednesday evening, and Lalita Devi, who passed away on Thursday.

Officials suspect carbon monoxide or another hazardous gas released from the underground mine fire may have caused the deaths, though confirmation will come after post-mortem reports.

Anger flared on Thursday as locals accused BCCL of negligence. Protesters blocked the Dhanbad–Ranchi main road, burned tyres and demanded relocation and compensation for affected families.

BCCL Project Officer Lakhan Lal Barnwal said trapped gas from the mine, closed for nearly 15 years, is now escaping through cracks, affecting a radius of about 400 feet. Putki-Balihati Colliery Area General Manager G.C. Saha added that the area is already classified as fire-affected and said complete evacuation is the only long-term solution. Safe relocation efforts are ongoing.

With inputs from IANS