Kalahandi: Six persons died of suspected asphyxiation after entering an under-construction septic tank at Karlakhunta village under Madanpur Rampur (M. Rampur) police limits in Kalahandi district on Tuesday.
The incident occurred during centering-related work on the septic tank when a worker reportedly entered the structure and began experiencing breathing difficulties. In an attempt to rescue him, six others entered the tank one after another, but all allegedly lost consciousness inside, suspected to be due to toxic gas accumulation.
Locals managed to pull the victims out and rushed them to the Community Health Centre (CHC) at Madanpur Rampur. Doctors declared six of them dead on arrival. One critically injured person was later shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital in Kalahandi for advanced treatment.
Among the deceased are four workers, the house owner, and his son.
On being informed, police reached the spot and initiated an investigation. The bodies have been sent for post-mortem examination, and further inquiry is underway to determine the exact cause of death. Preliminary reports suggest that toxic gas accumulation inside the septic tank may have led to the tragedy.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi also expressed deep grief over the incident and extended condolences to the bereaved families. He announced an ex gratia assistance of ₹4 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF) for the next of kin of each deceased.
Further investigation is underway.
