Several Feared Dead After Explosion Triggers Massive Rock Collapse at Stone Quarry in Odisha’s Dhenkanal

Several workers are feared dead following a rock collapse triggered by an explosion at a stone quarry in Dhenkanal district, Odisha, sparking panic and an urgent rescue effort.

The incident has raised serious concerns about safety practices at quarry sites in the region, as officials continue to assess the scale of the tragedy.

Explosion during quarry work triggers collapse

According to officials, the incident occurred on Saturday evening near Gopalpur village under Motanga police station limits. Workers were engaged in drilling and stone exploration when a sudden explosion reportedly led to a massive rockfall, trapping several people under debris. The exact cause of the explosion is yet to be confirmed.

Rescue teams rush to site, search continues

Emergency response teams, including local fire services, personnel from the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force, dog squads and heavy machinery operators, were immediately deployed to the quarry. Search and rescue operations are ongoing as authorities work to determine how many workers remain trapped.

"The rescue operation is in progress," a fire service officer said.

Senior officials supervise operations on ground

District Collector Ashish Ishwar Patil and Superintendent of Police Abhinav Sonkar reached the site to oversee rescue efforts and coordinate between agencies. Officials said more details would emerge once debris is cleared and the situation is fully assessed.

Naveen Patnaik expresses grief, seeks probe

Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik expressed deep sorrow over the incident and called for accountability. In a post on X, he said, "I am deeply saddened to learn that workers lost their lives due to a rockfall following an explosion in a stone quarry in Dhenkanal. At this sorrowful time, I convey my deepest condolences to the family members, along with prayers for the eternal peace of the departed souls."

He further urged authorities to ensure responsibility is fixed and rescue work is prioritised. "Let appropriate investigations be conducted into the circumstances under which this incident occurred and the state of the workers' safety measures, and let the government direct its attention toward immediately expediting rescue operations," he added.