CM Announces ₹4 Lakh Ex-Gratia for Odia Workers Killed in Andhra Quarry Mishap

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday announced an ex-gratia of ₹4 lakh each for the families of six migrant workers from the state who lost their lives in a granite quarry accident in Andhra Pradesh’s Bapatla district.

The announcement was made through the official social media handle of the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO). The financial assistance will be provided from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF).

The deceased have been identified as Danda Badatya, Banamala Chehra, Bhaskar Bisoyi, and Santosh Goud from Ganjam district, and Tukuna Dalei and Musa Jana from Gajapati district.

Expressing his sorrow over the tragic incident, CM Majhi conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of all necessary support from the Odisha government.

The incident occurred earlier in the day at a private granite quarry near Ballikurava in Andhra Pradesh, where around 20 labourers were at work. A large portion of the quarry’s edge suddenly collapsed, trapping several workers underneath.

According to reports, six workers died on the spot, while at least 10 others sustained critical injuries. Rescue operations were launched immediately by the local administration, and the injured were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu also expressed deep concern over the tragedy and instructed officials to ensure the best possible medical care for the injured.

Authorities are continuing the rescue efforts and an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the collapse.