Bengaluru, July 2: A tragic incident in Karnataka’s Bengaluru has resulted in the deaths of seven workers due to a massive rockfall at a stone quarry. Concerns are rising that more workers may be trapped under the debris, potentially increasing the death toll. Several others have also sustained injuries. Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has expressed his condolences over the loss of life.
Officials reported that the accident occurred around 5 AM on Thursday in the Madapattana area of South Bengaluru. Initial information indicates that approximately 20 workers were present at the site when a large rock suddenly collapsed on them. It was noted that the workers were excavating about 40 feet underground after blasting operations had taken place the previous day.
The identities of the deceased have not yet been confirmed. Reports suggest that the victims were migrant workers from Bihar, while some of the injured are local to Karnataka. Five workers suffered serious injuries and were transported to R.R. Hospital for treatment.
Eyewitnesses stated that the workers received no warning before the rock fell. One witness recounted, “The incident happened around 5 AM while the workers were on duty. Some managed to escape, while others were injured, and many were trapped under the rocks. It didn’t seem like the rock fell due to blasting; it collapsed suddenly while the workers were performing their daily tasks.”
Another worker, Vinod, mentioned that the victims were handling work after a night shift. He said, “When the rock fell, many were trapped beneath it. Some lost their legs, while others lost their hands. We couldn’t do anything to save them. I was operating a machine about 10 meters away. The victims were drilling and had no idea about the rock above them.”
Authorities have stated that the bodies of the deceased have yet to be recovered from the rubble. They also reported that several heavy rocks damaged the excavation machinery during the collapse.
Currently, rescue operations are ongoing. Police and rescue teams are working to clear the debris in search of trapped workers. Senior police officials and district administration representatives have arrived at the scene promptly.
In response to the incident, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar expressed his sorrow. He wrote on the social media platform X, “It is very tragic that seven workers lost their lives due to the rockfall in Madapattana, South Bengaluru. I pray to God to grant peace to the souls of the deceased, strength to their families to bear this sorrow, and a speedy recovery to the injured.”
The Chief Minister also emphasized that ensuring the safety of workers in stone quarries is the responsibility of quarry owners. The government will take appropriate action against quarries that violate safety regulations.
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