A tragic incident occurred in India's northeastern state of Mizoram as a stone quarry collapsed due to heavy rains caused by a tropical storm, resulting in the loss of 13 lives with 16 workers still missing. The quarry, located in Melthum, approximately 6 kilometers from the state capital Aizwal, became a site of devastation as rescue efforts were initiated to save those trapped beneath the rubble.
Rescue operations led to the recovery of the bodies of the deceased workers, while two individuals were successfully rescued from the debris. Despite the challenges posed by the collapsed quarry, rescue teams are tirelessly working to reach the remaining trapped workers and are hopeful of finding more survivors amidst the wreckage.
Mizoram, known for its numerous stone quarries supplying raw materials for road and building construction, has faced previous incidents of quarry collapses due to inadequate environmental clearances. Tragically, similar incidents have occurred in the past, claiming the lives of workers in the region.
The recent heavy rainfall in India's northeastern states, following the landfall of tropical storm Remal in Bangladesh, has heightened concerns about potential damage to structures and the increased risk of landslides. The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings about the adverse effects of the heavy rains, emphasizing the need for precautionary measures to safeguard vulnerable areas and communities in the region.