Quarry Collapse in Bengaluru Kills 12 Workers from Bihar
At least 12 labourers, all from Bihar, were killed when a massive rock collapsed at a stone quarry in Bengaluru on Thursday. The accident occurred at a private quarry in the Kengeri area on the outskirts of the city, according to police officials.
Rescue teams have been deployed to the site, and efforts are ongoing to search for any additional trapped workers. The deceased were primarily engaged in stone-cutting and loading operations when the collapse happened.
Details of the Incident
The collapse took place around 11:30 am, catching workers by surprise. A large boulder dislodged from the quarry wall and fell onto the labourers below. Preliminary reports suggest that the quarry had been operating without adequate safety measures.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar expressed condolences and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh for the families of each deceased. He also ordered a probe into the incident.
Rescue and Relief Operations
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, along with local police and fire services, are conducting rescue operations. So far, bodies of 12 workers have been recovered. Several others were injured and are being treated at nearby hospitals.
According to a senior police officer, the quarry owner has been detained for questioning. Authorities are investigating whether the quarry had the necessary permits and safety clearances.
Political Reactions and Demands for Compensation
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed deep grief over the incident and announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of the deceased from Bihar. He also directed officials to coordinate with Karnataka authorities for the repatriation of bodies.
Opposition leaders in Karnataka have demanded strict action against the quarry owner and called for better safety regulations in mining operations.
The incident highlights the precarious working conditions faced by migrant labourers in unorganised sectors. Many workers from Bihar and other states are employed in Karnataka's quarries and construction sites, often without proper safety gear or insurance.
Further updates are awaited as rescue teams continue to search the debris.
