Dhenkanal: At least four workers were killed in a powerful explosion during blasting operations at a stone quarry near Gopalpur village under Motanga police station limits in Dhenkanal district on Saturday.
According to preliminary reports, the blast occurred while routine quarrying work was underway. All four victims were workers engaged in the blasting process. The intensity of the explosion proved fatal, killing them on the spot.
After receiving information about the incident, personnel from Motanga police station immediately rushed to the site and began preliminary inquiries. Senior officials have also been alerted, and the local administration swung into action following confirmation of the fatalities.
As of the latest reports, it is not yet clear whether there are more casualties or injuries. Rescue and verification efforts are underway to ascertain if any other workers were present at the site during the blast.
The incident has cast a pall of gloom over the surrounding villages, with shock and grief gripping the local community. Residents expressed concern over safety practices in stone quarries operating in the area.
Police have secured the quarry premises and are examining the circumstances that led to the explosion.
Further details, including the cause of the blast and whether safety norms were followed, are expected after completion of the investigation.
