According to the residents, smoke was seen billowing out of one of the mines around 10 am. The local authorities were informed.

But that was just the beginning.

Around 5 pm, there was a huge explosion, after which, smoke and flames started emanating from four mines.

“Some people were probably working inside one of the mines, but we do not know if they have been able to come out safely,” said a resident.

The locals also alleged that the fire tenders arrived late.

“Currently, fire in two of the four mines has been controlled. Initial investigations reveal that the fire was caused by methane gas that has been accumulating in the mines,” said Subhas Chandra Sarkar, an officer of the Jamuria police station.