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BCCL is maintaining round-the-clock monitoring, rescue and rehabilitation measures after a gas emission incident in the Kenduadih fire zone, Dhanbad. Medical support, shelters, scientific assessment and long-term stabilization efforts are underway with assistance from IIT-ISM, NDRF and technical agencies.
Ground Zero: BCCL on High Alert
Dhanbad: Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) remains on high alert following a gas emission incident reported on 03 December 2025 at Rajput Basti, located in the declared fire and subsidence zone of Kenduadih Colliery (PB Area).
Initial assessments indicate that the gas originated from abandoned underground galleries where sealed historical workings had trapped residual gases, which later escaped through subsidence cracks.
During the Mine Rescue Station (MRS) survey, carbon monoxide levels exceeding safety limits were detected inside multiple houses.
A total of 44 individuals reported symptoms including mild headache, chest tightness, and respiratory irritation.
Of these:
37 patients have been discharged
7 remain under medical observation
Residents of approximately 45 households have been advised to temporarily shift to shelters arranged by BCCL. On the night of 07 December, around 300 people were served food, and 36 stayed overnight in shelters.
Continuous atmospheric monitoring is being conducted across key points, including:
Old GM Bungalow
Rajput Basti
Masjid vicinity
Septic tank zone near Dhaura
In several locations, carbon monoxide readings remain above permissible limits, requiring precautionary evacuation and continued monitoring.
Two Mine Rescue teams are deployed round-the-clock, supported by fogging units and water sprays for controlled gas dispersion. A 24×7 control room is operational at both the site and BCCL headquarters.
BCCL has activated a comprehensive medical response system:
30 beds – Kustore Regional Hospital
20 beds – Moonidih Regional Hospital
399 beds – Central Hospital, Dhanbad
Six ambulances equipped with oxygen support remain stationed at the site. A four-doctor task force and a medical camp are operating continuously.
BCCL has engaged:
IIT-ISM
CIMFR
CMPDIL (RI-II, Dhanbad)
Other expert agencies
Work includes gas sampling, geo-technical surveys, subsidence mapping, controlled drilling and venting, surface sealing, and soil blanketing.
BCCL CMD Shri Manoj Kumar Agarwal visited the site on 05 December, interacting with affected families and reviewing relief measures. The Director (Technical), CIL also undertook a night inspection on 05–06 December.
A District Enquiry Committee inspection has been completed and its report is awaited.
Under the Jharia Master Plan, affected families have visited potential relocation sites at Belgaria and Karmatand. While many residents responded positively, a section expressed concerns. A documentation drive attempted jointly by JRDA and BCCL was halted due to local resistance.
Rajput Basti lies in a legally designated fire and subsidence area. Evacuation orders have existed since 2006, supported by multiple High Court directives. There are no remaining private claims, and the land belongs to BCCL.
“This is a sensitive and challenging situation. Our foremost priority is the safety and dignity of affected families. We are combining emergency response with scientific intervention and long-term rehabilitation under the Jharia Master Plan. Support will continue until full stabilization and safe relocation.”
BCCL continues uninterrupted scientific monitoring, medical response, and rehabilitation coordination to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all affected residents.
