Bhopal, May 26 (IANS) At least six labourers were killed after a portion of an under-construction well collapsed in Madhya Pradesh’s Panna district on Tuesday.

The tragic incident occurred in Biharpurwa village under Ajaygarh police station limits, prompting a massive rescue operation by the administration and local authorities.

According to preliminary information, the labourers were engaged in digging and construction work inside the private well when a large section of loose soil suddenly caved in.

Three labourers were rescued safely, while at least two to three others were buried under the debris.

Rescue operations continued for several hours. Panic spread across the village as screams for help echoed from the site and local residents rushed to assist.

Police and district administration officials reached the spot immediately after receiving information.

Rescue teams, along with earth-moving machines, were deployed to clear the debris and search for the trapped workers.

Three bodies were initially recovered from the collapsed structure, while continuous rescue efforts led to the recovery of the remaining victims.

Officials confirmed that all six labourers died in the incident.

The deceased workers belonged to the same Yadav family from the village and had been involved in well-digging work for a long time.

The well was reportedly being constructed on private land, and local villagers had been hired for the work.

Due to the sudden cave-in, the workers did not get enough time to come out safely. Heavy machinery, including JCB excavators, was used to remove the mud and debris, an official said.

A large crowd of villagers gathered at the site during the rescue operation.

The district administration said further investigation is underway to ascertain whether adequate safety measures were in place during the construction work.

Former state Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief and Khajuraho MP Vishnudutt Sharma expressed deep sorrow over the accident.

He extended his condolences to the families of the victims and assured them of all possible assistance.

Sharma said he had spoken to the Panna Collector and district administration officials over the phone and directed them to speed up rescue and relief work at the site.

He added that he would take up the matter with Chief Minister Mohan Yadav to ensure further necessary action and relief measures for the victims.

–IANS

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