1 Dead, 15 Feared Trapped After Stone Mine Collapses in UP’s Sonbhadra
In a tragic incident, one laborer was confirmed dead, and at least 15 others are feared trapped after a stone mine collapsed in Uttar Pradesh’s Sonbhadra district on Wednesday. The accident occurred in the Obra block, triggering a massive rescue operation amid unstable conditions.
Sonbhadra Mine Collapse: What Happened?
The cave-in took place around noon at an illegally operated stone quarry in Sonbhadra, a mineral-rich district prone to mining hazards. Reports indicate nearly 20 workers were extracting stones when a massive section of the mine collapsed without warning. Eyewitnesses described a loud rumble before debris buried multiple laborers.
NDRF Rescue Efforts Face Challenges
A joint team of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local police is working against time to locate survivors. Heavy machinery, including excavators, is being used, but unstable terrain and loose rocks are slowing progress.
A senior officer said, “We’ve recovered one body so far. The risk of further collapses and suffocation complicates rescue efforts.” Families of missing workers are pleading for faster action as hopes fade.
Illegal Mining in Sonbhadra: A Persistent Problem
Preliminary reports confirm the mine lacked safety clearances. Activist Ramesh Patel stated, “Illegal mining thrives here because authorities ignore violations until lives are lost.” Sonbhadra has seen repeated accidents, including a 2020 cave-in that killed five.
Political Outrage & Demands for Accountability
Opposition leaders, including Samajwadi Party’s Akhilesh Yadav, criticized the UP government for lax enforcement. Mining Minister Arvind Kumar Sharma announced a probe and vowed action against violators.
Will UP Enforce Stricter Mining Laws?
Labor unions are demanding:
✔ Better safety regulations
✔ Insurance for workers
✔ Compensation for victims’ families
As rescue teams race to find survivors, the tragedy underscores the urgent need for reform.
Follow #SonbhadraMineCollapse for live updates.
