Fatal Stone Quarry Collapse in Sonbhadra: Ongoing Rescue Efforts as Multiple Workers Remain Trapped

Officials have confirmed one fatality following the collapse of a stone quarry in Uttar Pradesh's Sonbhadra district, with an unknown number of laborers remaining trapped beneath the rubble. The body of a 30-year-old worker was recovered Sunday morning as rescue operations continue.

Authorities have yet to determine exactly how many individuals are still buried under the debris. Sanjeev Kumar Gond, Uttar Pradesh minister and local MLA who visited the disaster site in the Billi Markundi mining area, estimated that "around a dozen laborers" might be trapped following Saturday's collapse.

Additional Director General of Police (ADG) for the Varanasi Zone, Piyush Mordia, confirmed that debris removal operations have been ongoing since Saturday night. The deceased has been identified as Raju Singh from Panari village.

The rescue effort faces significant challenges due to the size of the fallen stones, requiring careful and methodical work to prevent further casualties. "The stones that fell from the hill are quite large, necessitating cautious removal procedures," explained Mordia.

He assured that adequate equipment and resources have been deployed to the site, with the entire district administration engaged in relief work.

District Magistrate B N Singh reported that the incident occurred when a wall inside the Krishna Mines quarry suddenly collapsed, trapping workers inside the facility.

Minister Gond has promised a thorough investigation into the operating circumstances of the mine, pledging "strict action against those found responsible" for any regulatory violations or negligence that may have contributed to the disaster.