A massive rock collapse at a stone quarry in India's Odisha state has killed multiple workers and left others trapped beneath tons of debris, prompting an extensive search and rescue operation that continued through Saturday night.
The tragic incident occurred in the evening at a quarry near Gopalpur village in Dhenkanal district while laborers were actively drilling and extracting stones. Without warning, a large section of rock gave way, burying the workers who had no time to escape.
Emergency response teams were immediately dispatched to the scene, including fire service personnel, Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) units, specially trained dog squads, and heavy earth-moving machinery. Rescue workers have been working through the night in difficult conditions, carefully removing debris in hopes of finding survivors.
The exact number of casualties remains unclear as rescue operations continue, with officials confirming that several workers have been recovered while others remain unaccounted for. Local authorities have set up a command center near the site to coordinate the emergency response.
Odisha Chief Minister has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident and announced compensation for the families of victims. State officials are examining whether proper safety protocols were being followed at the quarry and whether the site had all necessary permits and inspections.
Stone quarry accidents are unfortunately common in India, where the mining and quarrying sector employs millions of workers, often under hazardous conditions. Safety regulations exist but enforcement remains inconsistent, particularly at smaller operations in rural areas.
The collapse has renewed calls from worker advocacy groups for stricter enforcement of safety standards at mining and quarrying sites across the country. Local residents have gathered near the site, anxiously awaiting news of their family members who worked at the quarry.
District officials have urged people to stay away from the rescue site to allow emergency workers to operate efficiently. The state government has promised a full report on the circumstances that led to the collapse once rescue operations conclude.
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