Over 1,000 residents of Kenduadih Basti in Jharkhand’s Dhanbad district are being evacuated after a carbon monoxide leak from underground mines, officials said on Thursday. The gas leak, described as “poisonous,” has prompted swift action from Bharat Coking Coal Ltd (BCCL) to ensure the safety of local residents. Authorities have confirmed that the evacuation process is already underway.

A woman allegedly died on Wednesday following exposure to the gas, while 12 others fell sick and required medical attention. Officials clarified that the exact cause of the woman’s death will be confirmed only after the postmortem report is received. Health teams have been deployed to monitor and treat affected individuals in the area.

In response to the incident, BCCL began immediate evacuation procedures, posting notices on the walls of houses in the affected zones and urging residents to vacate as quickly as possible. The company emphasized that the move was essential for the safety of both life and property, and arrangements were being made to relocate people to safer locations.

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BCCL’s Putki-Balihati Colliery Area General Manager, G C Saha, told reporters that three ambulances were stationed on standby in Kenduadih Basti to respond to any emergency. Safety teams are coordinating with local authorities to ensure a smooth evacuation process and provide immediate medical care where necessary.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the carbon monoxide leak and examining the mine infrastructure to prevent further incidents. Residents and officials are working together to ensure that all precautionary measures are taken until the area is deemed safe.

The gas leak has raised renewed concerns about mine safety protocols in the region. Officials have assured that BCCL and district authorities are prioritizing the well-being of residents and are taking all steps to avoid a repeat of such hazardous incidents in the future.

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