Mishap during NALCO expansion project work: 2 contractual workers killed in Odisha, 1 critical

At least two contractual workers engaged in the ongoing expansion work of National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO) at Damanjodi in Odisha on Tuesday.

As per initial reports, three workers were busy carrying out heavy iron-rod binding works when the mishap occurred. Sources said, the workers were reportedly trapped under the iron-rods after they fell on them during the binding work.

Several other workers, who were working at some distance from the mishap spot, survived. With the help of crane, the workers were rescued from under the iron-rods. One labourer reportedly died on the spot.

It has been learnt that another worker, who also sustained critical injuries, has been admitted to the hospital. He is now undergoing treatment and might be shifted to Visakhapatnam for further treatment, sources said.

The exact reason behind the mishap is yet to be ascertained. The mishap has also raised questions whether all the requisite SOPs were followed during the construction work by the contractor and supervising officials.

No NALCO official has commented on the matter so far (till the filing of this piece).

Meanwhile, till the last report came in, Damanjodi Police and CISF police officials had reached the spot and started an investigation.