Workers Trapped, Four Feared Dead in Odisha Coal Hopper Collapse

Odisha : A tragic accident unfolded at the Dalmia Cement Factory in Rajgangpur, Sundargarh district, Odisha, when a coal hopper collapsed, trapping nearly a dozen workers beneath a massive pile of coal. The incident has sparked fear and outrage among workers and locals, as rescue operations continue at a frenetic pace.

According to reports, around 12 workers, including women, were working under the hopper when the structure suddenly gave way, burying them under the debris. Emergency rescue teams, equipped with heavy machinery such as JCBs and cranes, have been deployed to the site. Six fire engines and multiple ambulances are also on the scene, working tirelessly to locate and retrieve the trapped workers.

The Station House Officer (SHO) of Rajgangpur stated that the rescue operation might take approximately two more hours to complete. “Machines have been deployed, and rescue work is being carried out at a fast pace. However, no injured individuals have been recovered yet,” the SHO confirmed.

Four bodies have been located inside the collapsed compound, but official confirmation regarding the fatalities is pending. The fate of the remaining trapped workers remains uncertain, heightening the anxiety of family members and colleagues awaiting updates. Local officials, including the tehsildar, are closely monitoring the situation, ensuring that all resources are utilized to expedite the rescue.

The incident has triggered outrage among the factory’s workforce. A group of employees gathered at the main gate of the factory, staging protests against the management. They alleged that prior complaints about the deteriorating condition of the coal hopper were ignored, accusing the management of negligence. The protesters have demanded accountability and immediate action to prevent such tragedies in the future.

The collapse has drawn attention to the factory’s safety protocols, or lack thereof. Authorities are expected to launch a detailed investigation into the incident to determine the cause of the collapse and address allegations of negligence.

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