A tragic incident at a stone quarry in Odisha's Dhenkanal district has left several workers feared dead and many others trapped under a massive pile of rocks. The collapse occurred on the evening of Saturday, 4 January 2026, sending shockwaves through the region and triggering a large-scale rescue operation.
Details of the Dhenkanal Quarry Disaster
The catastrophe struck while workers were actively engaged in drilling and stone exploration activities at the site. The exact number of labourers trapped beneath the debris remains unclear, adding to the anxiety of families gathered nearby. Initial reports from news agency ANI suggest that a loud explosion was heard at the quarry just before the structural failure and subsequent rockfall happened. The precise cause of this explosion and the collapse is yet to be determined and is under scrutiny.
Massive Rescue Operation Launched
In response to the emergency, rescue operations were swiftly initiated. Specialised teams from the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) have been deployed to the site to lead the lifesaving efforts. To aid in the complex task of locating survivors buried under the rubble, authorities have pressed a dog squad into service. Additionally, several heavy machines are being used to carefully clear the debris and expedite the search for the trapped individuals.
Political Reaction and Call for Probe
Leader of Opposition in Odisha, Naveen Patnaik, expressed profound grief over the incident. In a post on social media platform X, he conveyed his deepest condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the eternal peace of the departed souls. Patnaik also emphasised the need for a thorough investigation, stating, "Let appropriate investigations be conducted into the circumstances under which this incident occurred and the state of the workers' safety measures." He urged the state government to focus on immediately accelerating the rescue operations.
The situation at the Dhenkanal quarry remains critical as rescue teams work against time. This is a developing story, and further updates on the number of casualties and the progress of the rescue mission are awaited.
