Shillong: Four workers from Assam have died after reportedly inhaling toxic gas while attempting to repair an underground septic tank at Rangdokram in Meghalaya’s South Garo Hills district.Police received information around 3 pm on Sunday that two labourers were trying to open the lid of a septic tank at the residence of Sebastian Ch Sangma. They collapsed after being exposed to fumes emanating from inside the tank.Two others, who rushed to their aid, were also overcome by the toxic gas and fell unconscious.Police and fire and rescue personnel reached the spot and launched a rescue operation. Two rescuers reportedly became unconscious while attempting to reach the workers and were provided immediate medical assistance.The four 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 four were residents of Assam’s South Salmara-Mankachar district.Preliminary reports suggest that the septic tank did not have a proper gas outlet or soak pit, possibly leading to the accumulation of toxic gas inside. Authorities are investigating the incident to establish the exact cause of death and identify the gas involved.The incident comes two months after a similar tragedy at Lapalang in Shillong, where five workers reportedly died of suffocation while working in a dug-out well at a private compound.
