Fresh Land Subsidence Incident in Dhanbad Sparks Safety Alarms
A new case of land subsidence has been reported in the Kenduadih Naya Dhauda area of Dhanbad, causing significant concern for the safety of the heavily trafficked Dhanbad–Bokaro road. The subsidence has partially impacted the land adjacent to four shops, resulting in visible cracks in the structures and spreading panic among local shopkeepers.
Immediate Precautionary Measures Implemented
According to officials, the ground near the shops caved in slightly, which weakened the foundation of the buildings. In response to the potential risk of further collapse, authorities swiftly took precautionary actions. Upon receiving the information, G C Saha, the general manager of BCCL PB Area, visited the site to assess the situation and interact directly with the affected shopkeepers.
Following the assessment, the four shops were identified as unsafe and were promptly cordoned off using red tape. Shopkeepers were instructed to vacate the premises immediately to prevent any untoward incidents. G C Saha stated, "There has been movement in the abandoned 14-number seam of the Kenduadih colliery, which has likely triggered the subsidence."
Ongoing Gas Leakage Threats Compound the Crisis
The area had already been declared unsafe due to continuous leakage of carbon monoxide gas. Officials revealed that despite ongoing nitrogen flushing efforts to neutralise the gas, the impact has not been significant. Residents have been strongly urged to shift to safer locations to ensure their safety.
This incident follows a tragic event in December last year, where three women lost their lives due to toxic gas leakage in the same region. The Kenduadih Rajput Basti remains the worst affected area, highlighting the persistent dangers faced by the community.
Relocation Efforts Amidst Lingering Fear
The district administration, in collaboration with BCCL management, is actively working to relocate residents to safer places. However, fear continues to grip locals as the threat of further subsidence and gas leakage looms large over the area. The combined risks pose a serious challenge to public safety and infrastructure stability in Dhanbad.
