NCL Blasting Raises Safety Concerns in MP's Singrauli; Temple Roof Collapses, What Locals Said?
Singrauli: Concerns regarding safety have mounted among residents living near Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL) mines in Morwa after the roof of the Ram-Janki temple in Ward No. 4, Ambedkar Nagar, collapsed on Friday evening.
It is reported that the collapse followed blasting operations in the mine. Large chunks of the roof fell onto the floor, scattering debris across the temple premises. Locals described the intensity of the blast as earthquake-like, leaving them terrified.
This incident has reignited concerns about the impact of frequent mining blasts on nearby homes, schools, and religious sites.
Concerns Stemming from Previous Incidents
A week ago, debris from blasting fell onto a house in Ward No. 10, damaging the structure and injuring three people. About a month prior, a portion of a two-story house spanning approximately 4,000 square feet in Jhumariya Tola had also collapsed. The homeowner alleged that vibrations from NCL's blasting operations had weakened the walls and caused cracks to appear.
Locals have demanded an immediate inspection of buildings near the mines, an assessment of blast-induced vibrations, and a structural safety audit by experts. They have also demanded that accountability be fixed if the investigation confirms that the damage was caused by blasting.
These recurring incidents have raised questions regarding safety measures and the attitude of both the NCL management and the district administration. Residents are urging for immediate action to prevent a major tragedy.