A major accident has struck the Billi Markundi mining area in Sonbhadra district, where a portion of the Krishna Mines quarry collapsed late Saturday, trapping several laborers beneath tons of stone debris.
Officials on the site confirmed that one body has been recovered so far, as teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) race against time to reach potential survivors.
Rescue Operations Face Massive Challenge
District Magistrate B N Singh stated that a wall inside the stone quarry suddenly caved in, trapping the workers. While the exact number of people missing remains uncertain, officials estimate that “around a dozen labourers” may be under the rubble. Eyewitnesses suggest up to 15 workers were present at the site when the incident occurred, reportedly during drilling operations.
UP Minister Sanjeev Kumar Gond: “The circumstances under which the mine was operating will be investigated. Strict action will be taken against those found guilty.”
The rescue operation, which continued through the night, has been hampered by the massive volume of heavy stone slabs and the reported depth of the quarry. Heavy machinery and specialized personnel have been deployed to clear the debris and widen access to the collapsed section. Authorities from the district administration and police are coordinating efforts at the site.
The District Magistrate assured the public that a probe will be initiated to ascertain the cause of the tragic collapse and determine whether any safety regulations were violated.
The incident has highlighted long-standing concerns over worker safety and regulatory oversight in the region’s mineral-rich quarries.