Raging fire in Nimcha mines, people panic

Bardhaman, Mar 26 (UNI) A raging fire was sighted again at the abandoned coal mine of Nimcha after seemingly subsiding last night.

Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) sources said the locals spotted the fire and informed the colliery officials.

Sources said the subsidence occurred in an area of 300 metres adding that such features were common in any abandoned mine.

Asked on the reason of the fire, the Director General (Mines Safety) said that when the air trapped inside the mines comes in contact with air, it causes fire.

He further stated that they had earlier warned the people, residing in that area, to abandon the place.

However, no casualty had been reported so far. Many people had started vacating the areas.

ECL officials had rushed to the area to control the situation.

This is the third incidence since January but the ECL authorities had not taken any step to check it, the locals alleged.

UNI XC PP PL VD HT1615