Odisha Quarry Blast: Many Feared Dead, Rescue Underway in Dhenkanal

• A powerful blast in a stone quarry near Gopalpur village, Dhenkanal, Odisha, led to a massive rock collapse.
• Many laborers are feared dead, with at least four confirmed fatalities and several others trapped under debris.
• The quarry, lacking blasting permission and due to close in 2025, may have been involved in illegal blasting.
• An immediate rescue operation is underway involving fire service, ODRAF, dog squads, and heavy machinery.
• Former CM Naveen Patnaik expressed sorrow, urging investigation, safety measures, and accelerated rescue efforts.

Why It Matters: Deadly quarry blast in Dhenkanal traps laborers; rescue ongoing amid illegal blasting concerns.