Rescue operations continue after stone mine collapse in UP’s Sonbhadra, one body recovered so far

SONBHADRA (Uttar Pradesh): Rescue operations continued on Monday in Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh after a stone mine collapsed on Saturday, leaving several workers feared trapped under massive debris. Officials confirmed that one body has been recovered so far, while efforts are ongoing to locate others.

The accident occurred on Saturday when a section of the mine caved in, trapping around 15 workers beneath the rubble. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been deployed for an intensive rescue operation that began immediately after the collapse.

#WATCH | Sonbhadra, UP | Rescue operations are ongoing to rescue the people trapped after a stone mine collapsed on 15th November. One body has been recovered. pic.twitter.com/cRrBUKZkUO

— ANI (@ANI) November 17, 2025

Divisional Commissioner Rajesh Prakash said senior officials and specialised teams are on the ground coordinating the operation. “The NDRF and SDRF teams are deployed. NDRF DIG and Commandant are here too. We are trying to complete the rescue operation as soon as possible. It is not possible to quote any figures at this time,” he said.

Among those waiting anxiously is Somnath, the father of two of the workers trapped inside. “Two of my sons are trapped. My three sons had come here to work. One was operating a tractor, the other a compressor, and the youngest son was downhill, who is safe. It’s been twenty-four hours since we received any information about the two of them. What can I even say? My mind is not working”, he said.

#WATCH | Sonbhadra, UP | Visuals from the spot where people are feared trapped after a stone mine collapsed yesterday in Sonbhadra. NDRF and SDRF teams are at the spot. One body has been recovered. Rescue operations are underway. pic.twitter.com/Jq8uw59jch

— ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2025

Additional Director General of Police (ADG) Zone Varanasi Piyush Mordia said in a video message, “On 15th November, in Sonbhadra district, a stone mine collapse incident was reported. Workers are feared trapped here. NDRF, SDRF, CISF, Sonbhadra Police, and Fire Department teams are on the scene to rescue the people. Operation is underway…”

Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been deployed to carry out rescue efforts. Heavy machinery, along with specialised personnel, is being used to remove the debris and widen access to the collapsed area as quickly as possible. (ANI)