Shillong, Sept 27: Four labourers from Assam died reportedly after inhaling toxic gas during cleaning of an underground septic tank at Rangdokram in South Garo Hills on Sunday.
Initially, two labourers tried to open the lid of the septic tank when they got exposed to the toxic gas inside and collapsed, according to sources.
The two other labourers tried to rescue their companions, but they too overcame by the toxic gas and fell unconscious.
Police and Fire and Rescue personnel reached the spot and began the rescue operation.
Two Fire and Rescue personnel also reportedly became unconscious while attempting to reach the labourers. They were provided immediate medical attention.
The risk involved in the rescue operation prompted police personnel dig through the surrounding soil to gain access to the underground tank.
The deceased have been identified as Mofidur Rohman (34) of Diara; Ajiyer Rahman (41) of Chengurchar; Ismail Hussain (20) of Chomrashali; and Rakib Hussain (22) of Boalia, all from South Salmara-Mankachar district of Assam.
Sources said the septic tank did not have a proper gas outlet or soak pit, which may have resulted in the accumulation of gas inside.
The exact gas involved in the incident is yet to be confirmed. Septic tanks can accumulate gases, including hydrogen sulphide and methane, which can be dangerous in an enclosed space.
Further details about the incident are awaited.
