Mounesh Vishwakarma

Daijiworld Media Network - Bantwal

Bantwal, Mar 4: A powerful explosion occurred at a stone quarry in Madattadka, Vittalmudnur village, after explosives stored for rock blasting detonated due to extreme heat. The blast sent shockwaves across Vittal town and five nearby villages, leaving residents in a state of panic.

The explosion, which took place around 1.30 pm, caused extensive damage within a 4 km radius. Houses within 100 meters suffered significant destruction, with roofs, windows, and household items shattered. Two houses belonging to Eshwar Naik and his son Vasant Mohan, located about 100 meters from the site, were severely damaged. More than 15 houses in the vicinity sustained structural impact, with roof sheets dislodged, windowpanes shattered, and ceiling sections collapsing. Shops in Vittal town saw goods knocked off their shelves, and several buildings developed cracks in their pillars. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.

The explosion occurred near the NS Crusher quarry, where a box containing detonators and around 200 gelatin sticks was reportedly stored among a pile of stones. Due to the impact, dried grass in the surrounding open land caught fire, and leaves from nearby trees were stripped off.

Officials conduct inspection

Following the incident, district police superintendent Yathish N, Bantwal tahsildar Archana Bhat, revenue inspector Ravi M N, assistant Girish, panchayat development officer Sujay K, and officials from the mining department visited the site for inspection.

Complaints and investigation

Residents alleged that quarry operations were being conducted within 20 meters of residential areas, violating safety regulations. Despite repeated complaints, officials had failed to take action, they claimed. In response, SP Yathish directed the Vittal police inspector to collect detailed information about the quarry and submit a report. "The report will be forwarded to the deputy commissioner for necessary action," he assured.

Legal action against negligence

SP Yathish confirmed that the explosion occurred when workers left the stored explosives unattended while they went for lunch. He stated that a case would be registered against those responsible for improper handling of explosives, and legal action would be taken accordingly.