Four construction labourers from Assam died on September 27 after reportedly inhaling suspected toxic gas inside an underground septic tank at Rangdokram village in Meghalaya’s South Garo Hills district. The workers were carrying out construction-related work at a private residence when the incident occurred. Two labourers collapsed after opening the septic tank, while two others fell unconscious while attempting to rescue them.
Police and Fire and Emergency Services personnel later reached the site and launched a rescue operation. Authorities are investigating the incident, while the exact type of gas and cause of death remain unconfirmed.
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Key Facts
- Location: Rangdokram village, South Garo Hills, Meghalaya
- Date: September 27
- Incident: Suspected toxic gas exposure inside an underground septic tank
- Deaths: Four construction labourers
- Victims: Mofidur Rohman, Ajiyer Rahman, Ismail Hussain and Rakib Hussain
- Home district: South Salmara-Mankachar, Assam
- Rescue agencies: Police and Fire and Emergency Services
Four Workers Collapse Inside Septic Tank
The incident took place at around 3 pm at the residence of Sebastian Ch Sangma in Rangdokram village. The four labourers were reportedly working on a newly constructed septic tank.
According to preliminary reports, two workers attempted to open the tank’s lid. Soon after, they collapsed after apparently inhaling gas trapped inside the underground structure.
Two other labourers then rushed to help their colleagues. However, they too reportedly became unconscious after entering or approaching the confined space.
Rescue Operation Becomes Difficult
Police and Fire and Emergency Services personnel quickly reached the location. However, rescuers faced major difficulties because the septic tank lay underground.
As a result, the rescue team had to dig through the soil around the structure to gain access to the trapped workers. During the operation, two fire personnel also reportedly lost consciousness while attempting to reach the victims.
The affected fire personnel received immediate medical attention. Meanwhile, rescuers continued efforts to reach the four labourers.
The four workers were later declared dead.
Victims Identified
Authorities identified the deceased as Mofidur Rohman, 34, from Diara, Purandiara, Mankachar; Ajiyer Rahman, 41, from Chengurchar, Purandiara, Mankachar; Ismail Hussain, 20, from Chomrashali, Kalapani, Mankachar; and Rakib Hussain, 22, from Boalia, Radhamadhab Hat, Mankachar.
All four workers belonged to Assam’s South Salmara-Mankachar district.
Possible Gas Accumulation Under Investigation
Preliminary information suggests that the septic tank may not have had an adequate gas outlet or soak pit. Consequently, toxic gases could have accumulated inside the confined underground space.
Septic tanks can contain gases such as hydrogen sulphide and methane. When these gases build up in enclosed spaces, they can create serious risks for people entering the area.
However, authorities have not yet confirmed which gas caused the incident. They are also investigating the precise circumstances surrounding the deaths.
What happened in Rangdokram?
Four construction labourers from Assam reportedly collapsed after exposure to suspected toxic gas inside an underground septic tank at Rangdokram village in Meghalaya’s South Garo Hills district.
When did the incident occur?
The incident occurred at around 3 pm on September 27.
Where were the victims from?
All four deceased workers were residents of South Salmara-Mankachar district in Assam.
What caused the deaths?
Preliminary reports point to suspected toxic gas accumulation inside the septic tank. However, authorities have not yet established the exact gas or confirmed the precise cause of death.
Why was the rescue operation difficult?
The septic tank was located underground. Therefore, rescuers had to dig through surrounding soil to reach the workers. Two fire personnel also reportedly lost consciousness during the rescue attempt.
Northeast India Location Context
The incident highlights the risks associated with working inside confined underground structures such as septic tanks. South Garo Hills is one of Meghalaya’s districts in the Northeast India region, while all four victims came from Assam’s South Salmara-Mankachar district.