Daijiworld Media Network – Sonbhadra

Sonbhadra, Nov 16: A stone quarry collapse in Uttar Pradesh’s Sonbhadra on Saturday afternoon claimed the life of one worker, with around ten others feared trapped under massive debris. The incident occurred in the Obra area while labourers were drilling holes in the rock in preparation for blasting.

Rescue teams rushed to the site after officials received information about the collapse. Teams from CISF, NDRF, SDRF, and local police launched an intensive operation that continued through the night.

“We have recovered one body so far, and we suspect nearly ten people are still trapped. The rescue operation is underway,” Sonbhadra District Magistrate Badri Nath Singh said. The deceased has been identified as Raju Singh Gaur of Parsoi village, whose mobile phone helped rescuers confirm his identity.

According to initial reports, a large section of the quarry wall caved in, causing labourers to fall nearly 150 feet and trapping many beneath the rubble. Authorities said a detailed inquiry will determine the cause and circumstances of the collapse.

Additional Director General Piyush Mordia said the size of the collapsed stone slabs requires extreme caution during removal. All necessary equipment has been deployed for the operation.

Local residents and workers rushed to the spot as news spread, expressing fear that more labourers may still be stuck deep inside the quarry. Rescue efforts are ongoing.