BCCL Continues Scientific Monitoring and Relief Operations in Kenduadih Gas-Affected Zone
CMD Manoj Kumar Agarwal visited the site, reviewing the situation and directing teams to intensify monitoring, relief, and rehabilitation work
BCCL is maintaining round-the-clock vigilance, scientific monitoring, and extensive relief operations in the gas-affected Rajput Basti area of Kenduadih Colliery (PB Area), following the gas release incident reported on December 3, 2025. The region, historically prone to geothermal fire and subsidence, witnessed the escape of residual gases trapped in abandoned underground tunnels.
Immediate relief and rescue operations were launched, with Mine Rescue Station (MRS) teams detecting elevated carbon monoxide levels inside several homes. Affected families were evacuated on priority. Joint teams of BCCL and NDRF continue to survey the area, while two MRS Dhansar teams remain permanently deployed. Mobile fogging, water spraying, and 24×7 control rooms at BCCL HQ and the site are ensuring continuous monitoring.
Parallel to relief efforts, long-term rehabilitation is progressing. BCCL CMD informed that 378.39 acres in Belgadia Mouza have been leased to JRDA, enabling 99-year rights for houses and facilitating the use of approved funds for township development. Under the Jharia Rehabilitation Scheme, displaced families are being allotted 800 sq. ft. pucca houses equipped with civic amenities and cattle shed provisions.
Infrastructure development—including roads, water supply, electricity, community facilities, schools, health centres, and police outposts—is moving at a fast pace to ensure safe and dignified resettlement.
Director (HR) Murali Krishna Ramaiah inspected relief camps today, reviewing food, water, sanitation, and medical arrangements while interacting with affected families. Late last night, CMD Manoj Kumar Agarwal visited the site, reviewing the situation and directing teams to intensify monitoring, relief, and rehabilitation work.
BCCL reaffirmed its commitment to sustained scientific monitoring, medical preparedness, and rehabilitation until the area is fully stabilized, and all affected families are safely resettled.
