Shillong: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma promised to look for ways to pay the families of five workers killed in the Lapalang borewell accident on July 10. Current Disaster Management rules block standard ex gratia payments for such cases. Sangma noted the victims came from poor families and the state must weigh their financial desperation before deciding.
The workers likely died from toxic gas or low oxygen inside the hole. Three victims worked for a private contractor. The National People’s Party Nongthymmai Block Executive Committee urged the state to provide support. President Rito Sing Syiem submitted a formal request for compensation after the tragedy. Experts claim proper gear and gas testing would have saved the men.
Sangma vowed to punish those who broke safety laws. “The law will take its course against those who ignored prohibitions and safety regulations,” he said. Pynthorumkhrah MLA A.L. Hek met the families early on. He provided initial aid and plans to lobby the government for more money. Hek stated he shared in their grief while confirming he will push for additional state support.
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