Karkala: Three workers engaged in cleaning sludge and mud from a well at the Sri Durgaparameshwari Temple in Kukkundoor were rescued safely after getting trapped inside the well on Sunday morning.
The incident occurred at around 10.30 am when the workers were carrying out cleaning work inside the temple well. According to officials, the workers became trapped while removing accumulated sludge and mud from the bottom of the well, triggering panic among locals and temple authorities.
Soon after receiving information about the incident, personnel from the Karkala Fire and Emergency Services rushed to the spot and initiated an emergency rescue operation.
The trapped workers were identified as Rajesh (42), Pavan (29), and Gopal Naik (52). Eyewitnesses said the workers had entered the well as part of routine maintenance and cleaning activities when they found themselves unable to come out safely.
Fire personnel launch immediate rescue operation
Karkala fire and rescue officials quickly mobilised equipment and personnel to carry out the operation. Rescue teams assessed the condition inside the well and began efforts to safely evacuate the trapped workers without causing further risk.
The rescue operation was conducted under the leadership of fire station officer Albert Monis. Fire service personnel Roopesh, Suresh, Dinesh, Ganesh, Nithyananda, and driver Mujamil actively participated in the mission.
Officials used safety gear and rescue equipment to reach the workers and bring them out one by one. The operation drew the attention of local residents and devotees, many of whom gathered near the temple premises during the rescue efforts.
Workers shifted to hospital
After being successfully rescued, all three workers were shifted to a nearby hospital for medical examination and treatment. Officials said the workers had narrowly escaped a major tragedy.
Though the exact reason for them getting trapped was not immediately known, preliminary information suggested that the accumulation of sludge, poor ventilation, and difficult conditions inside the well may have contributed to the situation.
Doctors are reportedly monitoring the health condition of the workers, and all three are said to be out of danger.
Locals appreciate rescue personnel
The timely intervention of the Karkala Fire and Emergency Services helped avert a possible disaster. Local residents and temple authorities appreciated the swift response and coordinated efforts of the rescue team.
Incidents involving well cleaning operations continue to pose serious risks, particularly during manual desilting work in deep wells and confined spaces. Safety experts have repeatedly stressed the importance of using protective equipment, oxygen support systems, and proper monitoring while carrying out such operations.
Authorities are expected to review safety measures followed during the cleaning work to prevent similar incidents in the future.