Overview
- Authorities recovered two bodies and now say only two workers were present at the quarry, with identities yet to be formally confirmed.
- The explosion occurred Saturday evening near Gopalpur under Motanga police limits, triggering a collapse that buried workers under large boulders.
- Rescuers deployed ODRAF teams, local fire services, dog squads and heavy machinery, with overnight efforts slowed by poor visibility and wildlife concerns.
- District officials report blasting clearance was suspended on September 8, 2025, and the lease expired on December 31, 2025, yet quarrying reportedly continued.
- The quarry has been sealed and police have registered a case against the leaseholder under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Explosive Substances Act and state mining rules.