Odisha: 2 killed, several feared trapped after massive explosion at stone quarry in Dhenkanal
At least two workers were killed and several others are feared trapped after a massive explosion rocked an illegal stone quarry in Odisha's Dhenkanal district late Saturday night. Rescue operations are underway as authorities investigate the cause of the blast.
New Delhi: At least two workers were killed and several others are feared trapped after a powerful explosion rocked an illegal stone quarry in Odisha’s Dhenkanal district on Saturday night. The blast reportedly occurred at a quarry near Gopalpur village, which local officials said was operating illegally. The incident came to light late at night, prompting the local administration and police to rush to the spot and secure the area.
Visuals from the site showed debris strewn across the quarry, with massive stone slabs collapsing into the pit. Co-workers and local residents were initially seen attempting to rescue injured labourers before authorities took over the operation. The injured workers were immediately shifted to a nearby hospital. As of now, the exact number of casualties has not yet been confirmed.
Exact number of causalities is still not confirmed
Senior officials arrived at the site soon after receiving information and launched a preliminary inquiry. The entire area was cordoned off, and police restricted public movement near the affected zone. Officials said confirming whether workers were trapped under the debris was challenging, as the explosion occurred late at night and details about the number of labourers present at the site remained unclear.
Preliminary reports indicated that a portion of soil inside the quarry caved in following the blast, heightening fears that workers may have been buried under the rubble.