Pramesh S Jain
Chief Minister of Karnataka DK Shivakumar on Thursday said strict legal action,including the registration of FIRs, will be taken against those found responsible for violating safety and mining regulations in connection with the stone quarry collapse at Madapatna in Bengaluru South district that claimed seven lives.
After visiting the injured workers and bereaved families at Rajarajeshwari Hospital in Kengeri,Shivakumar said the government would thoroughly examine all reports related to the incident and initiate action against those responsible.
“We will convene a meeting on mining operations soon and frame stricter guidelines for quarries across the state.Such incidents should not recur, and necessary directions will be issued to ensure compliance,”he said.
Responding to questions on action against officials,the Chief Minister said the government would first study the reports to identify violations and proceed against those found guilty under the law.
On allegations by Leader of the Opposition R.Ashoka that illegal quarrying had increased under the present government,Shivakumar questioned the basis of the claim.
“What evidence does he have to call these quarries illegal?These quarries have been operating for 20 to 30 years,during the tenure of different governments,”he said.
Providing an update on the tragedy,Shivakumar said seven workers died on the spot when the rock collapsed around 7 am,while five others sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment,with one of them in critical condition.
He said one of the deceased was from Yadgir district, while the others were migrant workers from other states.
Police have contacted their families,and arrangements are being made to transport the bodies.
The Chief Minister said the state government would provide compensation to the victims’ families as per norms.
He added that the quarry owners had also been directed to provide separate compensation to the families of the deceased.
*Statement by Minister Shri Krishna Byre Gowda:
I am deeply shocked to learn of the tragic incident in which a rock collapse at a stone quarry in Madapatna, Bengaluru South Taluk,claimed the lives of seven workers and left five others injured.This is an extremely unfortunate tragedy”.
I visited the site along with officials to assess the situation and later visited the hospital to enquire about the condition and well-being of the injured.
I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the workers who lost their lives in this tragic accident. I assure the bereaved families that the Government stands firmly with them and will extend all necessary assistance and support them during this difficult time.
