Bhubaneswar, 16 January (H.S.): Two labourers lost their lives and another sustained injuries after a large boulder dislodged and fell on them during alleged illegal quarrying near the Bhairabi Temple at Pathar Kuanari in Malkangiri district on Friday.

The deceased have been identified as Mitu Madhi of Champaghari and Tuna Gadaba of Gadaba village. The injured labourer, Bijay Rao, also from Champaghari, is undergoing treatment and his condition has been reported as stable.

According to preliminary reports, the incident occurred when a massive stone suddenly broke loose from the hillside while a group of labourers were engaged in unauthorised quarrying activities. One labourer died on the spot, while two others were rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. One of the injured later succumbed to his injuries at the District Headquarters Hospital, Malkangiri, taking the death toll to two.

Following the incident, tension prevailed at the site as local residents protested against the alleged illegal quarrying, claiming that such activities have long posed serious risks to lives and safety.

On receiving information, police reached the spot and initiated an investigation into the circumstances leading to the mishap.

District Labour Officer Arnapurna Duruka said that six labourers were engaged in quarrying near the Bhairabi Temple around 8 am when the accident occurred. She stated that authorities are verifying whether the deceased and injured workers possessed valid labour cards for compensation purposes. “A case will be registered under the Employees’ Compensation Act, and action will be taken against the quarry owner after completion of the investigation,” she added.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda