Shillong, July 11: Five people, including three Khasi and two Nepali workers, died on Saturday at Lapalang, here after being overcome by suspected toxic gas inside a well. One more person lost his life while attempting to rescue those trapped.
According to eyewitnesses and officials, a group of workers had entered the well at Lapalang for cleaning or repair work. Soon after descending, they reportedly collapsed, suspected to have inhaled poisonous gas that had accumulated inside the confined space.
In a desperate bid to help, another person went down but also succumbed. One worker managed to get out and ran for help, surviving the incident.
Personnel from the Fire and Emergency Services rushed to the spot and recovered the bodies from the well. The victims have been identified as three local Khasi workers and two Nepali migrant workers who were engaged for manual work in the area.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Lapalang and adjoining localities. Both the Khasi community and the Nepali worker community, who form a significant part of Shillong’s workforce, are mourning the loss.
Officials said the exact cause will be confirmed after post-mortem and forensic examination, but preliminary assessment points to asphyxiation due to toxic gas buildup inside the well.
The incident has once again raised questions about safety protocols for workers entering wells and septic tanks without protective gear or gas detectors. Authorities are expected to initiate an inquiry and announce compensation for the families of the deceased.
The lone survivor is under observation.
