Tragedy strikes in Rajasthan's copper city: Lift fell 1800 feet, 14 officers trapped inside, rescue underway

A lift plummeted a staggering 1800 feet, ensnaring 14 officers, including a vigilance team from Kolkata and several senior officials from Khetri Copper Corporation (KCC).

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In a devastating accident that shook Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, tragedy struck at the Kolihan mine of Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL) in the Khetri region. A lift plummeted a staggering 1800 feet, ensnaring 14 officers, including a vigilance team from Kolkata and several senior officials from Khetri Copper Corporation (KCC). Rescue efforts are currently underway at the scene, with ambulances summoned from nearby hospitals and medical teams poised for action in case of emergencies. As the operation progresses, the extent of injuries remains uncertain.

Vigilance team and officials trapped

The fateful incident unfolded as the vigilance team from Kolkata, accompanied by senior KCC officials, ventured into the Kolihan mine on Tuesday evening. Tragedy struck during their exit, as the lift chain snapped around 8:10 pm, plunging the lift 1800 feet. Presently, rescue teams are on-site, diligently working to extricate the trapped individuals. Fortunately, as per current reports, no fatalities have been confirmed.

Broken chain triggers mine disaster

Situated in the Khetri region of Neemkathana, the Kolihan mine of HCL serves as a crucial hub for copper extraction. On the ill-fated day, the Kolkata vigilance team visited the site alongside KCC's senior officials. Nightfall saw their departure, but an unforeseen catastrophe struck when the lift chain fractured, causing the tragic fall. As investigations continue, the purpose behind the Kolkata team's visit remains undisclosed.

Rescue efforts intensify 

Efforts to rescue the 14 officers ensnared in the lift have kicked into high gear, with rescue teams mobilizing swiftly. Ambulances stationed at the site stand ready, accompanied by prepared medical teams bracing for any medical contingencies. The aftermath drew a sizable crowd, promptly managed by law enforcement to facilitate rescue operations. With the lift submerged deep within the mine's depths, specialized teams have initiated a meticulous rescue mission.

Jhunjhunu's Khetri: The Copper Haven

Renowned as the 'Copper City,' Jhunjhunu's Khetri region boasts substantial copper reserves. Approximately half of India's copper output emanates from the Khetri mountains, earning the area its prestigious moniker. Spanning a radius of about 324 km, the Kolihan area harbors over 300 underground mines, extracting copper from depths reaching 102 meters below sea level.