SHILLONG, Meghalaya — The death toll in the devastating coal mine accident in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills has risen to 19, following the recovery of more bodies from the site. Meghalaya Home Minister Lahkmen Rymbui confirmed the updated figures on Friday, stating that authorities have also made two key arrests in connection with the illegal mining activity that led to the tragedy.

The incident, which occurred earlier this week, has once again brought the spotlight on the hazardous conditions of “rat-hole” mining in the region. According to official reports, the victims were trapped deep inside the mine after it became flooded, making rescue efforts exceptionally difficult for the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams stationed at the site.

Minister Rymbui informed the media that the state government has taken a stern view of the incident. The two individuals arrested are believed to be the managers or operators responsible for the illegal extraction process at the site. The Home Minister emphasized that a high-level inquiry is underway to identify any further lapses in enforcement and to ensure that those flouting safety regulations face the full force of the law.

Despite a long-standing ban on rat-hole mining by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), such operations have reportedly continued in remote pockets of the state. As rescue teams work around the clock to locate any remaining individuals, the state government has announced that it will review security measures in the mining belts to prevent further loss of life. Financial assistance for the families of the deceased is also under consideration as the community mourns the tragic loss.