Rat hole mining is a controversial and hazardous practice of extracting small quantities of coal from narrow burrows or deep tunnels. (Image: News18), The term “rat hole” refers to the narrow pits dug into the ground, typically large enough for one person to fit and extract coal.(Image: News18), Once the pits are dug, miners descend using ropes or bamboo ladders to reach the end of the tiny holes. (Image: News18), The coal is then extracted manually using tools like pickaxes, shovels, and baskets. (Image: News18), There are no proper safety provisions for miners like ventilation, structural support and safety gear. (Image: News18)