Mines Safety Official Orders Halt of Unfit Dumpers in Manuguru
Inspection Conducted After Fatal Accident in Mining Area
The Deputy Director of Mines Safety, Dilip Kumar Raksha, has conducted safety inspections in the Singareni Manuguru area following a recent fatal accident. The inspection was carried out at PK OC Section-2, where VPR Durga (DIMPL) OB company is operating.
The action comes after an OB worker lost his life in an accident reported on Sunday, prompting a review of safety conditions and operational compliance in the mining zone.
Over 100 Dumpers Found Without Fitness Certification
During the inspection process, authorities identified that a significant number of dumpers were operating without valid fitness certificates and required permissions. More than 100 such “sani dumpers” were immediately halted from operations.
On Thursday (second date), after the second shift blasting, officials found that only 35 heavy dumpers had valid fitness approvals. The remaining vehicles lacking certification were restricted entirely to the parking yard.
Safety Violations and Operational Restrictions
The Deputy Director issued clear instructions to ensure that unfit vehicles are not used under any circumstances. The halted dumpers will remain non-operational until compliance requirements are met.
The inspection also covered broader safety lapses, including inadequate adherence to prescribed operational protocols and a lack of mandatory approvals.
Directions Issued to Management and Supervisory Staff
Following the findings, detailed instructions were issued to the OB company management to strengthen safety practices. Emphasis was placed on the use of personal protective equipment, adherence to safe working procedures, and proper supervision of workers.
Specific focus areas included haul road maintenance, adequate lighting, water spraying systems, and other preventive safety measures aimed at avoiding accidents.
Compliance Under Coal Mines Regulations
Instructions were also extended to the Singareni management to ensure strict implementation of safety norms under the Coal Mines Regulations (CMR 2017). Authorities directed that safety management plans (SMP) and standard operating procedures (SOP) be followed consistently.
Written orders have been issued mandating daily monitoring of safety practices in mining operations and garage areas to prevent recurrence of such incidents.
Context of Safety Enforcement in the Mining Sector
The enforcement action highlights ongoing concerns over safety compliance in coal mining operations. Regular inspections and adherence to regulatory frameworks remain critical in preventing workplace accidents and ensuring worker safety.