Seven workers were killed on Thursday morning when a massive slab of rock collapsed at a stone quarry in the Madapatna area of Bengaluru South taluk, Karnataka. Several others were injured in the incident.
Rockfall struck workers mid-shift
Around 18 labourers were carrying out their usual stone-breaking work at the quarry when a huge chunk of rock suddenly gave way from a height of roughly 40 feet and crashed down on those working below. Witnesses at the scene said the rock fell with such speed and force that the workers had no chance to move out of the way. Several were buried under the debris, and seven died at the site.
Rescue operations under way
Police and rescue teams rushed to the quarry as soon as the accident was reported and began relief operations. The area has been cordoned off to allow debris clearance and rescue work to proceed without hindrance. Authorities fear more workers could still be trapped beneath the rubble, and a search operation is continuing. The injured have been admitted to a nearby private hospital for treatment, though an official figure for the number hurt has not yet been confirmed.
Victims from Bihar and Assam
Police said the labourers who died were migrant workers from Bihar and Assam, who had travelled to Karnataka for quarry work to earn a living. The process of formally identifying all the deceased is under way, and their families are being informed.
Chief Minister expresses condolences
Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar expressed deep grief over the accident, offering condolences to the families of the deceased and wishing the injured a speedy recovery. He described the incident as extremely tragic and said the state government was closely monitoring the situation and would extend every possible assistance to those affected.
Questions raised over safety standards
The tragedy has raised serious questions about safety arrangements at the quarry. Police are investigating whether safety regulations were being followed during the mining operations, and say strict action will be taken against those found responsible if negligence is established.