A Normal Morning Turns to Tragedy
On October 21, 1966, the Welsh village of Aberfan faced a devastating disaster when a colliery spoil tip collapsed, sending a 30-foot-high wave of coal slurry rushing into Pantglas Junior School. The landslide struck at 9:15 a.m., trapping children and teachers under the sludge.
The Last Survivor
Jeff Edwards, just 8 years old, was the final child pulled alive from the debris. Rescuers worked tirelessly, but 144 lives were lost, including 116 children, most aged 7 to 11. Teachers and parents dug desperately, hoping to save more, but the cries of trapped children gradually faded.
A Preventable Disaster
Years earlier, concerns about the spoil tip’s location above a natural spring were ignored by the National Coal Board (NCB). The investigation revealed the NCB’s negligence and concluded the disaster “could and should have been prevented.”
Aftermath and Recovery
Global sympathy poured in, with donations exceeding £1.75 million. However, survivors and bereaved families faced lasting trauma, and financial aid was mishandled. Queen Elizabeth II, who visited eight days after the disaster, later expressed deep regret for her delayed response.
On October 21, 1966, the Welsh village of Aberfan faced a devastating disaster when a colliery spoil tip collapsed, sending a 30-foot-high wave of coal slurry rushing into Pantglas Junior School. The landslide struck at 9:15 a.m., trapping children and teachers under the sludge. pic.twitter.com/NQHvX4NPIQ
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