Several workers are feared to be trapped under debris after a coal hopper, a large iron structure, collapsed inside a cement factory at Rajgangpur in Odisha’s Sundargarh district on Thursday evening.
Sundargarh MLA Rajen Ekka stated that reports suggest some fatalities may have occurred in the incident.
The collapse took place at the Dalmia Bharat Cement Limited factory while over a dozen laborers were working near the site, according to a senior official quoted by news agency PTI. However, neither the company nor the police could confirm the exact number of workers trapped.
Upon receiving information, local police rushed to the scene and began efforts to remove the debris.
“An accident occurred at Dalmia Bharat Cement Limited, and we immediately responded. All relevant officials, including the DIG, SP, and sub-collector, are on-site to assist. Reports indicate that there may be fatalities. We urge that the factory manager, shift supervisor, and safety officer be arrested and interrogated. Victims should be compensated, and medical treatment must be provided,” Sundargarh MLA Rajen Ekka told PTI.
Rajgangpur Police Station Inspector-in-Charge Manaranjan Pradhan said, “The coal hopper suddenly collapsed. We are on-site now, and debris removal is underway with cranes. So far, no casualties or injuries have been reported, but we suspect some workers may be trapped under the rubble, as they typically work beneath the structure.”
Following the incident, workers and their family members gathered outside the factory. Some families reportedly expressed concern, saying their loved ones were not responding to calls.
