Nine migrant workers were killed in a tragic accident after a massive rock collapsed at a stone quarry near Tavarekere in Bengaluru South on Thursday, triggering concerns over safety standards at quarrying sites.
According to police, the victims died on the spot when the huge rock gave way during excavation work, leaving them trapped under the debris before rescue teams could reach them.
The deceased workers were reportedly migrants from Bihar and Assam who had been employed at the quarry.
Rock collapse during excavation
Preliminary information suggests the accident occurred while excavation was underway at the quarry. A large section of rock suddenly collapsed, crushing the workers beneath it.
Emergency responders and police personnel rushed to the site after receiving information about the incident. Rescue operations were launched, but all nine workers were found dead.
The bodies were later recovered and sent for post-mortem examination.
Probe into safety violations
Police have registered a case and initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the collapse. Authorities are examining whether the quarry was operating in compliance with safety regulations and if any negligence contributed to the tragedy.
Officials are also verifying whether adequate protective measures were in place for workers and if the quarry possessed the required operational permissions.
Further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns over workplace safety in mining and quarrying operations, particularly involving migrant labourers employed in hazardous conditions.