Explosion at illegal stone quarry: Two bodies recovered, more feared trapped

Two bodies were recovered while many more are feared to be trapped under the debris following a massive explosion at an illegal stone quarry near Gopalpur in the Motanga area of Dhenkanal district in Odisha on Sunday.

Fire Depeartment personnel retrieved the bodies from under the heap of stones, while apprehensions remain that more workers could still be trapped under the rubble.

Rescue operations continue at the site with the deployment of ODRAF teams and two units of the Fire Services at the time of reporting. JCB machines were used to clear the debris, and the entire area was cordoned off as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of both rescuers and the public.

Rescue Operation Underway

The explosion was reported from a stone quarry under Motanga police station limits on Saturday night. Following the incident, local residents alerted the authorities, prompting an immediate response from the administration and police. The site was secured, and movement in and around the quarry was restricted as rescue and search operations began.

Officials involved in the operation said the focus remains on clearing the debris cautiously, as the possibility of more workers being trapped beneath the stone heap cannot be ruled out at the stage.

Administration Rushes To Spot

Upon receiving information, the Odapada Tahasildar and personnel from Motanga police station rushed to the quarry and initiated a preliminary investigation. Police personnel were deployed at the site, and the area was sealed to prevent public entry.

During the initial assessment, officials found that the quarry where the explosion occurred did not have valid permission for blasting activities. According to official sources, the Dhenkanal district mining office had issued a letter to the leaseholder on September 8, 2025, directing the closure of the quarry due to the absence of blasting approval.

Also Read: Several feared dead as massive explosion rocks illegal stone quarry in Odisha's Dhenkanal

Allegations Of Rule Violations

Despite the directive, information suggests that blasting activities were continuing at the site in violation of the rules. The district mining officer and the concerned leaseholder were not available for comment at the time of reporting.