Dhanbad News: Half a House Sinks, Gas Leak Raises Alarm in Jogta, Dhanbad

Dhanbad, November 19, 2024: A serious case of land subsidence emerged in Dhanbad’s Jogta police station area, specifically in the 11 No. locality, on Tuesday morning. A loud rumbling sound preceded the incident, which led to half of the house belonging to Brahmadev Singh Chaudhary sinking entirely into the ground. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported.

However, the event has triggered significant gas leakage in the vicinity, causing breathing difficulties for residents. The affected area, historically prone to subsidence due to underground fires, continues to face recurrent incidents, intensifying concerns among locals.

Underground Fires and Repeated Sinkholes in the Region

The region has long been plagued by underground fires and land collapses. Just a few days ago, a sinkhole appeared in the same area, emitting significant quantities of gas and visible flames. In response, Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) management attempted to address the fire by covering it with dozer work rather than extinguishing it. This approach seemingly exacerbated the problem, leading to the current subsidence and gas leak.

Gas Leakage Raises Public Health Concerns

The gas leakage following the incident has left nearby residents struggling to breathe, further compounding their fears. With fire-prone conditions and persistent gas emissions, the area remains a hazardous zone for those living nearby. Many locals are now questioning the effectiveness of management responses and the lack of proactive measures to mitigate such risks.

Impact on Residents: Life at Risk in Dhanbad’s Affected Zone

Brahmadev Singh Chaudhary, the homeowner affected by the subsidence, was reportedly in Bihar during the event. While his absence prevented possible injury, the situation underscores the precarious living conditions in the region. Residents express increasing anxiety over their safety as they grapple with recurrent environmental and management issues.

BCCL’s Role Under Scrutiny Amid Public Outcry

BCCL’s management practices have come under severe criticism. Locals recall previous incidents where attempts to mitigate underground fires were insufficient or mismanaged. The failure to address root causes of land subsidence and gas leakage has led to mounting frustrations among residents, who demand more accountability and effective solutions.

Key Takeaways