Dhanbad: A day after four workers were buried alive in coal slurry at a washery operated by Bharat Coking Coal Ltd (BCCL) in the Munidih area, family members of the deceased and locals demonstrated on Sunday, demanding adequate compensation and employment for the next of kin of the victims.
The deceased workers have been identified as Deepak Bauri, Dinesh Bauri, Manik Bauri and Hemlal Gop. The protesters blocked the washery gate for several hours, disrupting coal transportation and bringing operations to a halt. Agitators raised slogans and demanded that the authorities must ensure fair compensation and permanent jobs for the bereaved families. Police forces were deployed in large numbers to maintain law and order at the site.
Tripartite Meeting Reaches Consensus
A tripartite meeting, involving officials of Munidih colliery, district administration representatives and local leaders, was convened late in the evening. After prolonged deliberations, a consensus was reached to provide each bereaved family a compensation of Rs 20 lakh, to be disbursed in two instalments. Additionally, one member from each family will be provided employment in the outsourcing company associated with the washery.
Investigation Ordered
BCCL technical director Sanjay Kumar said a probe has been ordered into the incident and strict action will be taken against those found responsible. Soon after the accident on Saturday evening, local administration officials, police personnel and rescue teams rushed to the site. Using heavy machinery, including excavators, rescue workers cleared the debris and recovered the bodies.
The incident has raised concerns about safety standards in coal washeries and the implementation of compensation norms for workers in such hazardous environments. The district administration has assured that the compensation will be disbursed promptly, and the employment process will be initiated without delay.
