Earth Collapse in Kapurthala Village Injures Several During Alleged Illegal Excavation
A serious incident occurred at Mah Dewa village near Sultanpur Lodhi in Kapurthala district, where a section of earth collapsed during alleged illegal excavation on panchayat land, resulting in injuries to several villagers. The event has triggered an official investigation by local authorities.
Details of the Incident
According to local sources, the earth collapse happened while soil was being excavated from land belonging to the village panchayat. During the digging activity, a portion of the ground suddenly caved in, trapping multiple individuals under the debris. Prompt action by locals led to the rescue of the injured, who were immediately rushed to the district hospital for urgent medical treatment.
Injured Individuals and Medical Response
The injured villagers have been identified as Salwinder Singh, Malkiat Singh, Sandeep Singh, Jaspal Singh, Arshdeep Singh, and Sarabjit Kaur, all residents of nearby areas. Medical staff at the district hospital confirmed that these individuals were admitted for treatment and are currently under close medical observation. They are receiving care for head and body injuries sustained during the collapse.
Allegations of Illegal Activities
Relatives of the injured have alleged that the excavation was being carried out illegally on the panchayat land, with proper safety measures reportedly absent at the site. Some villagers have raised concerns about unauthorised soil mining in the area, suggesting that such activities have been ongoing for some time without adequate monitoring or enforcement.
Official Investigation and Response
Following the incident, Sultanpur Lodhi DSP Dhirender Verma visited the excavation site and stated that the matter is being investigated minutely. A written complaint has been submitted to the authorities, demanding a thorough inquiry. The issue has also gained traction on social media, where locals are calling for strict action against those responsible for the illegal mining.
Officials from the Panchayat and Mining Department have taken note of the incident and initiated a preliminary investigation. A team has been directed to visit the site to examine the circumstances of the excavation and determine whether it was conducted legally or in violation of regulations. DSP Verma confirmed that further action will be based on the findings of the inquiry, with legal proceedings to be initiated if illegal mining or negligence is established.
