Tragedy struck in the Sargaon area of Chhattisgarh’s Mungeli district on Thursday as the silo structure of an under-construction iron-making factory collapsed, claiming at least eight lives, with multiple casualties feared and more than 25 workers reportedly trapped under the debris.
Mungeli Collector Rahul Deo confirmed the incident, stating, “Labourers are feared trapped at an iron-making factory in Sargaon, Mungeli, after the silo structure of the factory collapsed. One injured labourer has been admitted to a hospital. Police and administration are present at the spot. Rescue operations are underway.”
Details of the Incident
The tragic collapse occurred in the Rambod area under Sargaon police station limits. The factory was reportedly engaged in manufacturing iron pipes when the silo structure gave way.
Rescue operations commenced immediately, with teams from disaster management units in neighboring districts, including Bilaspur, Pendra, Raigarh, and Janjgir-Champa, arriving to assist. Local police, administration, and villagers are also contributing to the rescue efforts.
Casualties and Injuries
Initial reports indicate that at least eight people have lost their lives, while one injured worker has been admitted to a nearby hospital. However, the exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed, with fears that the death toll may rise as rescue teams sift through the debris.
Hospitals in the district have been placed on high alert to handle the potential influx of casualties.
Government Response and Condolences
Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel expressed his grief over the tragedy. In a social media post, he wrote, “Sad news has been received about the death of workers due to the collapse of a chimney in a steel plant in Mungeli district. May God grant peace to the souls of the deceased and strength to their families to bear this grief. I pray for the safety of the workers buried under the debris and for the speedy recovery of the injured.”
The district administration is actively coordinating rescue and relief efforts, and a detailed investigation into the cause of the collapse is expected to follow.
Public Support and Assistance
Local representatives and villagers have gathered at the site to support the rescue operations. Witnesses described scenes of chaos and despair as families of the workers gathered, hoping for news of their loved ones.
This incident has raised concerns over safety protocols at industrial sites, with activists calling for stricter regulations and immediate action to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Rescue Operations Continue
As night falls, rescue teams remain on-site, working tirelessly to locate and save the trapped workers. The authorities have assured that all necessary resources are being deployed to manage the crisis and provide assistance to the affected families.