Malkangiri, Jan 16: Tension erupted in Odisha's Malkangiri district today as two labourers lost their lives and another was injured when a boulder dislodged during loading operations at an illegal quarry. The incident occurred in the morning at Pathar Kuanari, located behind the Tarini Temple.

The deceased have been identified as Mitu Maadhi from Champaghari and Kusa Das from Gadaba village. Bijay Rao, also from Champaghari, was the third labourer involved, and is currently receiving treatment for his injuries. His condition is reported to be stable.

Reports suggest that the workers were in the process of loading morrum into a tractor trolley when a large stone rolled down from the hill and struck them. The soil was being transported from an illegal quarry operating in the region. As the workers were loading, a stone suddenly dislodged from the hillside, crashing onto them. One labourer died instantly from the impact, while two others were rushed to a nearby medical facility. Unfortunately, one of the injured succumbed to his injuries during treatment.

The incident has sparked panic and outrage in the area, with local residents strongly condemning the illegal quarrying activities that they claim have repeatedly endangered lives. They have called for stringent action to stop the unregulated quarrying operations, which they say are often carried out without adequate safety precautions.

Following the incident, the police swiftly arrived at the scene and launched an investigation into the matter. The bodies of the deceased have been sent for post-mortem examination, and authorities are expected to take action against those responsible for the illegal quarrying activities.