Bhubaneswar: At least six people lost their lives, and another person fell ill after reportedly inhaling toxic gases inside an under-construction septic tank in Kalahandi district on Tuesday.
The incident took place at Kariakhunta village under the jurisdiction of Madanpur-Rampur police station, according to reports.
Preliminary information suggested that the victims had entered the newly built toilet tank during construction work to remove centring materials. Sources said some workers allegedly became unconscious after entering the confined chamber, suspected to be due to suffocation and lack of oxygen inside the tank.
In an attempt to save them, several others reportedly climbed into the tank one after another, but they too collapsed inside the enclosed space.
Police and local authorities reached the spot after the incident and initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep grief over the tragic accident.
In a post on X, he also conveyed condolences to the bereaved families.
The chief minister announced financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh each from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for the next of kin of the deceased.
