A devastating incident occurred at the Dalmia Cement factory in Rajgangpur, Sundargarh district, Odisha, when a coal hopper used for storage collapsed, trapping workers under tons of debris. The accident has drawn widespread attention and calls for accountability, with rescue operations still ongoing.
Incident Overview
This event occurred when a worker was loading coal into the hopper from above at night on a Thursday.
67 were caught up in the disarray, among whom so far 64 persons have been taken out.
There were three guys still stuck: Susant Rout, Dasaratha Patra, and Ranjit Bhol.
Massive Rescue Operations Underway
There are six teams of Fire Services and ODRAF personnel at work;
Heavy machinery, including cranes and excavators, are engaged in cleaning all the debris; this is supervised by the SSP, the Tehsildar, and other officers.
This is making the response very difficult since the damaged structure is too complex and heavy from the dragged debris.
Response from Authorities
Ekka, the Sundargarh MLA, added sternly the following:
- Arrest of key officials such as the factory manager shift in charge and safety officer.
- Compensation and medical treatment are provided to the sufferers.
- Also, Ekka confirmed the district authority, DIG, SP, and sub-collector were in charge of the effort’s direction and enforcement subsequent to the accident.
Probable Cause and Safety Concerns
One more instance has been confirmed here where initial statements confirm that the mishap did happen due to:
- Hopper of coal is weak.
- More quantity than capacity during the stock operation was responsible for the sinking of the stock.
- The incident also draws attention to the workplace safety conditions administered at the factory.
Effects and Society’s Response
Several families of the trapped workers are with bated breath to hear the latest in the heart-wrenching situation in and around the collapse.
Some are demanding enhanced safety protocols and further regular plant check-ups to curtail future tragedies.
Conclusion
Instead of giving vague terms about workplace safety and accountability, the unfortunate accident of coal hopper collapse in Dalmia Cement plant of Sundargarh district can serve as an eye-opener for the requirement of it. With the attempts of different rescue teams being continued, demands have been pouring across almost every center for justice and reforms in industrial safety.
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