BCCL coal mine collapses in Asansol; illegal mining suspected, many feared trapped

A coal mine, reportedly run by Bharat Coking Coal Ltd (BCCL), collapsed in West Bengal's Asansol on Tuesday, January 13 due to suspected illegal mining activity, reported CNN-News18.

Many people were feared trapped under the debris. Rescue operation was underway as police rescue teams rushed to the spot as many people were also feared to be injured in the accident.

The collapse reportedly occurred while coal was being illegally extracted from a BCCL open-cast mine. The incident took place in the Bordila area under Kulti police station in Asansol, as per News18.

The ownership of the coal mine is in question and is yet to be confirmed as BCCL clarified to some media publications that this mine doesn't belong to them and this is likely a case of illegal mining, CNBC-TV18 learnt.

The police, however, stated that an accident has occurred at a BCCL open-cast mine and that rescue operations by BCCL are currently underway.

The BCCL officials and Kulti police team reached the spot upon receiving information. Rescue operations are being carried out by BCCL using JCB machines, as per News18.

As news of the incident spread, local residents gathered at the site leading to tension in the area.

Further details are awaited in the matter.