Two contract labourers buried alive

Chennai, Feb 1 (UNI) Two contract labourers, hailing from Madurai district, were buried alive when a portion of the earth caved in while they were engaged in installation of sewage pipes in Pallavaram municipality, today.

Police sources said the deceased were identified as Alex Pandian (25) and Moorthy (35).

Under the Rs 52 crore project for laying pipes for underground drainage system, the municipality officials had dug the road to a depth of 18 ft. As there was water stagnation, the works were stopped for nearly two months and it resumed today.

The duo entered the pit for laying the pipes, when a portion of loose sand caved in on them, trapping them underneath.

They were immediately pulled out by the Fire service personnel.

As they were unconscious, they were rushed to the Chromepet Government Hospital, where they were declared brought dead.

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