DHENKANAL: In a tragic incident on Saturday evening, several workers are feared dead following a significant rock collapse at an illegal stone quarry in the Dhenkanal District of Odisha. Officials confirmed that as teams work diligently to conduct rescue operations, the search for individuals trapped under the massive debris continues.

The collapse occurred near Gopalpur village, under the jurisdiction of the Motanga police station. Reports indicate that workers were engaged in drilling and stone extraction activities when a large section of rock gave way. This site, marked as an illegal mining operation, had previously received a closure notice from the Dhenkanal District mining office, warning of unauthorized blasting activities.

Authorities have been grappling with the situation, as the precise number of workers trapped remains unknown. As of now, two fatalities have been confirmed. Rescue teams, comprised of local fire service personnel and Odisha's Disaster Rapid Action Force, are utilizing heavy machinery and dog squads to navigate the treacherous site. Rescue operations are challenging, with nighttime conditions complicating efforts to locate the victims.

Naveen Patnaik, the Leader of Opposition and former chief minister of Odisha, expressed his sorrow in a statement, saying, "I am deeply saddened to learn that workers lost their lives due to a rockfall following an explosion in a stone quarry in Dhenkanal. At this sorrowful time, I convey my deepest condolences to the family members, along with prayers for the eternal peace of the departed souls."

As the rescue attempts continue, police have cordoned off the area to ensure the safety of both rescuers and onlookers. The incident highlights ongoing concerns around illegal mining practices, raising questions about regulation enforcement in hazardous sites.