Deadly Collapse at Stone Quarry in Bengaluru South
Seven workers were killed after a 20-foot-high mud mound collapsed on them at a stone quarry in Bengaluru South on Tuesday, police said. The incident occurred at around 11:30 am in the Huskur area near Electronics City, a major IT hub.
Details of the Accident
The victims were reportedly working at the bottom of the quarry when a portion of the mud mound suddenly gave way, burying them under several tons of soil and debris. Rescue teams from the local police, fire department, and emergency services rushed to the spot and launched a search and rescue operation.
According to officials, the workers were engaged in extracting stones when the collapse happened. The quarry is believed to be operating illegally, though authorities are investigating the exact cause of the accident.
Rescue Operations and Casualties
Rescuers managed to pull out the bodies of all seven workers from the debris. The deceased have been identified as migrant laborers from other states, said a police officer. Their families have been informed.
"The mud mound was about 20 feet high. The workers were trapped under the soil. We recovered seven bodies," said a senior police official on condition of anonymity.
Government Response and Investigation
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar expressed grief over the incident and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh each to the families of the deceased. He also ordered a probe into the accident.
"I am deeply saddened by the tragic accident at a stone quarry in Bengaluru. My condolences to the bereaved families. The government will provide all necessary support," Shivakumar said in a statement.
The local police have registered a case and are investigating whether the quarry was following safety norms. Authorities are also looking into the possibility of illegal mining activities in the area.
Safety Concerns in Quarries
This incident highlights the hazardous working conditions in many small-scale quarries across Karnataka. Workers often lack safety gear and training, leading to frequent accidents. Activists have called for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and better compensation for victims.
The quarry accident is the latest in a series of similar incidents in the state. In 2023, at least three workers died in a quarry collapse in Kolar district. Experts say that unregulated mining and lack of oversight are major contributors to such tragedies.
