For The First Time, Controlled Blasting Used To Neutralize Illegal Rat-Hole Mining In Jharkhand

The Bokaro Forest Division has intensified its campaign against illegal coal mining, launching a significant operation in Gomia’s protected forest. For the first time in Bokaro district, controlled blasting was used to neutralize illegal coal extraction sites. This initiative, conducted in the CCL KBP project area of Gomia, involved a joint team comprising officials from the Bokaro Forest Division, Bokaro Commissioner’s office, Forest Department, Bermo Subdivision, Mining Department, Municipal Administration and Central Coalfields Limited (CCL).

Under the directive of the Bokaro Forest Division, illegal rathole mines were systematically sealed through drilling and controlled explosions, rendering them unusable. The primary objectives of this initiative are to safeguard forested areas, prevent environmental degradation, and eliminate the social and economic challenges arising from unauthorized mining activities.

As part of this extensive operation, a total of 290 controlled blasts were conducted in 29 illegal ratholes across Merhavan, Pachmo, Hurdag, and Bagiyar. The operation, which will continue for the next 15 months, is being carried out using advanced machinery to ensure worker safety and prevent mining-related accidents, particularly at the Avadhayi Mahan (Avdhayi Mine), which is prone to collapse.

Special Measures for Sensitive Areas

Given the ecological sensitivity of the Rahavan Reserve Forest, the operation was executed with extreme caution. Law enforcement agencies, including personnel from the Rahavan police station, provided security to ensure the successful closure of the Avadhayi mine.

Key officials overseeing the operation included:

• Sandip Shinde (IFS) – Attached Officer, Bokaro Forest Division

• Mukesh Machhua – Sub-Divisional Officer, Bermo

• Ravi Kumar – District Mining Officer

• Vashisth Narayan Singh – Sub-Divisional Police Officer

• Ajit Kumar – CCL General Manager and Project Officer

• Ajit Murmu – In-charge Forest Officer

• Vikas Mahato – Forester

These officials remained at the blasting site for three days, ensuring seamless execution and safety compliance. The operation was planned and directed by District Forest Officer, Rajneesh Kumar.

Strict Action Against Illegal Mining

The Forest Department has reiterated its commitment to eradicating illegal mining activities in protected areas. A strong message has been sent that such unlawful activities will not be tolerated. Authorities urged the public to report any incidents of illegal mining or environmental violations to the concerned department immediately. Community cooperation is essential to protect natural resources and maintain ecological balance.

This landmark action marks a decisive step toward preserving Gomia’s forest ecosystem while addressing the economic and safety concerns linked to unauthorized mining.

What is Rat-Hole Mining?

Rat-Hole Mining is an illegal, primitive, and hazardous method of coal extraction that involves digging narrow tunnels, just wide enough for a single person to crawl through.

Process of Rat-Hole Mining:

• Digging Narrow Pits: Small vertical or horizontal tunnels, called “rat-holes,” are manually dug into the ground. These tunnels are barely large enough for a person to enter.

• Descent into the Pit: Miners descend into the narrow shafts using bamboo ladders or ropes.

• Coal Extraction: Using primitive tools like pickaxes and shovels, miners manually extract coal from the seams.

• Coal Collection: Extracted coal is carried out in baskets or small carts and transported to the surface.

Hazards of Rat-Hole Mining:

• Health Risks: Miners often work in toxic, poorly ventilated conditions, leading to respiratory diseases.

• Safety Concerns: High chances of tunnel collapse, waterlogging, and landslides make it extremely dangerous.

• Child Labor & Exploitation: Due to the small size of tunnels, children are often employed, violating labor laws.

• Environmental Damage: It leads to deforestation, soil erosion, and severe water pollution due to acid mine drainage.

Legal Status:

Rat-Hole Mining was banned by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in 2014 due to its severe environmental impact and unsafe working conditions. However, illegal mining operations continue in some areas.

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