A heartbreaking incident occurred on Thursday in Sattagihalli village of Rattihalli taluk, Haveri, where a woman working under the rural employment scheme collapsed and passed away while on duty. The victim was identified as 63-year-old Renukamma Ningappa Kurubara.

The Shiragambi Gram Panchayat had initiated a desilting operation at a local lake under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). Renukamma was among several laborers engaged in the manual task. Without warning, she fell unconscious during the activity and died shortly thereafter.

Authorities from the Rattihalli Taluk Panchayat and local police swiftly arrived at the scene upon receiving information. A formal case has been filed at the Hirekerur police station, and further procedures are being carried out in accordance with legal requirements.

Renukamma’s sudden death has raised concerns about the working conditions for laborers employed under such schemes, particularly elderly workers toiling under the harsh sun with limited medical support.

Her demise has prompted calls for better welfare measures and health safeguards for vulnerable laborers participating in government-sponsored employment initiatives. Residents and workers alike are urging the authorities to assess and improve safety standards at rural work sites to prevent such unfortunate incidents in the future.

The incident underscores the urgent need to balance livelihood opportunities with adequate health precautions, especially for senior citizens working in physically demanding roles.