Quarry Disaster in UP's Sonbhadra: One Dead, Several Workers Trapped

A tragic incident occurred in Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh, where a stone quarry operated by Krishna Mining Works collapsed, resulting in the death of a 30-year-old labourer named Raju Singh. Reports indicate that around a dozen other workers remain trapped beneath the rubble.Ongoing Rescue OperationsEmergency services received the distress call at approximately 4:30 PM IST on Saturday. The police quickly mobilised rescue teams, including the National Disaster Response Force and the State Disaster Response Force to the mining area. Additional Director General of Police for Varanasi Zone, Piyush Mordia, confirmed that efforts are underway to clear the debris, although the operation is hampered by heavy stones.The body of Raju Singh was recovered

from the site on Sunday morning. The local Superintendent of Police, Abhishek Verma, stated that the quarry collapse involved a portion of the site caving in unexpectedly, trapping several workers inside.Allegations of Illegal MiningConcerns have emerged regarding the legality of the quarry operation. MLA Sanjeev Kumar Gond announced that an investigation into the mining activities would be conducted. Furthermore, allegations have been made by Samajwadi Party MP Chotelal Kharwar, suggesting that the quarry was operated illegally with the complicity of local authorities. Kharwar highlighted ongoing issues with illegal mining in the area, stating, "There is collusion between the sub-inspector, the SP, the DM and the mining officer."Community Impact and DemandsLocal resident Chhotu Yadav, who reported his brothers trapped in the collapse, expressed his anguish over the incident. Kharwar has demanded compensation of ₹50 lakh for the victim's family, alongside a government job for each affected family. The ongoing rescue efforts aim to locate the trapped individuals and ensure the safety of the remaining workers in the area.The police have booked the owner of Krishna Mining Works (name and domicile unknown), and his business partners, Madhusudan Singh and Dilip Keshari, both residents of Obra, on the complaint of Chhotu Yadav. The three are yet to be arrested.(With inputs from PTI)