Landslide in Birbhum Quarry Claims Two Lives, Injures Many
Synopsis
A devastating landslide in a stone quarry in Birbhum, West Bengal, resulted in two fatalities and numerous severe injuries. The incident has reignited political tensions and raised concerns about quarry safety regulations in the region.
Key Takeaways
Two workers tragically lost their lives due to a landslide.
Several others sustained serious injuries.
The quarry is owned by a political figure associated with the Trinamool Congress.
The incident has reignited discussions on quarry safety regulations.
Local authorities are conducting investigations into the legality of the quarry's operations.
Kolkata, March 16 (NationPress) Tragedy struck at a stone quarry in West Bengal's Birbhum district on Monday, leading to the deaths of two workers and leaving several others severely injured, according to police reports. The landslide occurred in Gopalpur, under the jurisdiction of the Murarai Police Station in the area.
Authorities revealed that the quarry's owner, Sirajul Islam, serves as the Chairperson of a Standing Committee within the Birbhum Zilla Parishad.
While work was ongoing, a sudden landslide hit the site. Approximately 12 to 14 workers were present at the time, and many were trapped under the falling debris.
Local residents undertook rescue efforts, assisting in the recovery of some workers before police arrived. Emergency responders subsequently conducted rescue operations, and the injured individuals were transported to a nearby medical facility, although two workers unfortunately succumbed to their injuries.
Concerns persist that the death toll could increase, as some workers are feared to still be trapped beneath the rubble.
This incident follows a similar tragedy in September of the previous year, when five workers lost their lives in a quarry mishap in Nalhati, also located in Birbhum.
The recent events have ignited a political firestorm, with the BJP calling for the arrest of the quarry owner, who is affiliated with the Trinamool Congress.
Dhruva Saha, the former president of the BJP’s organizational district in Birbhum, claimed, “This quarry operates illegally. With the Model Code of Conduct for the Assembly elections already in effect, we demand immediate police action for an arrest.”
In response, Trinamool Congress leaders stated that they are investigating the situation.
A local Trinamool Congress representative emphasized that, at this moment, the focus should be on the victims' conditions rather than the quarry's ownership. “Let the police and administration fulfill their responsibilities. Our priority is the welfare of the injured workers. Our party will support the families of those who lost their loved ones in this unfortunate incident,” the representative stated.
Point of View
It's crucial to present the facts surrounding the Birbhum quarry landslide without bias. The incident underscores the urgent need for stringent safety regulations in the quarrying industry, especially given its history of accidents. The focus should remain on the victims and their families during this tragic time.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the landslide in Birbhum?
The landslide occurred suddenly while workers were operating at the quarry, leading to tragic consequences.
How many workers were present during the incident?
Approximately 12 to 14 workers were on duty at the time of the landslide.
What actions have been taken by local authorities?
Local residents initially assisted in rescue efforts, and police later conducted operations to rescue trapped workers and transport the injured to a nearby hospital.
Has there been any political response to the incident?
Yes, the BJP has called for the arrest of the quarry owner, citing illegal operations, while Trinamool Congress leaders are investigating the matter.
What are the safety concerns related to quarries in Birbhum?
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about safety regulations and the legality of quarry operations in the region, following previous accidents.
