Sonbhadra: A major tragedy struck Sonbhadra district on Saturday when a large section of a stone mine suddenly caved in, leaving panic and chaos across the site. Initial estimates suggest that nearly 15 labourers may still be trapped under the massive heap of collapsed rock and soil.
Authorities confirmed that one body has been recovered from the rubble as frantic rescue efforts continue through the evening. Local police, district administration, and emergency responders immediately cordoned off the area while mobilising every available resource.
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been deployed to lead the high-risk search operation. Equipped with specialised tools, sensors, and trained personnel, the rescue teams are working under tight deadlines, as concerns over air pockets and shifting debris grow by the hour.
Heavy excavators, drilling machines, and earthmovers are operating continuously to clear access paths into the collapsed mine shaft. Officials on the ground say the unstable structure poses a significant challenge, slowing down the pace of operations.
“Every minute is critical. The terrain is difficult, but our teams are doing everything possible to reach those who may still be alive beneath the debris,” a senior district official said.
Local villagers, many of whom have relatives working in the mine, gathered anxiously near the site, hoping for updates as emergency lights illuminated the rescue area after sunset.
