Stone quarry collapsed in Aizawl’s Melthum, 10 killed & several feared dead

• Image Credit: Google

• May 28, 2024 | Pinaki Goswami

Despite efforts to rescue those trapped under the debris, incessant rains hampered the rescue operations...

Digital Desk: As many as ten people died, and several went missing after a stone quarry collapsed in Aizawl district of Mizoram amidst heavy rain on Tuesday morning, police stated.

The incident took place at around 6 am in an area between Melthum and Hlimen on the southern outskirts of Aizawl town after Cyclone Remal wreaked havoc across the state.

The collapse not only resulted in loss of lives but also caused extensive damage to nearby houses. Despite efforts to rescue those trapped under the debris, incessant rains hampered the rescue operations, making the task even more challenging.

Among the deceased, three were identified as non-Mizos, highlighting the diverse workforce affected by the tragedy. Rescue teams are diligently working to save any survivors, with reports indicating the involvement of non-tribal workers who are feared to be among the casualties.

The inclement weather exacerbated the situation, triggering landslides in various parts of the state. Aizawl found itself isolated from the rest of the country due to a landslide on National Highway 6 at Hunthar, while intra-state highways also faced disruptions.

In response to the adverse conditions, authorities took proactive measures, shutting down schools and allowing government employees, except those engaged in essential services, to work from home.

As Mizoram grapples with the aftermath of this devastating incident, efforts continue to bring relief to the affected communities and restore normalcy amidst the challenges posed by nature's fury.

In the wake of the rainfall, all schools were shut and government employees, except those involved in providing essential services, were asked to work from home.