8 Workers Die from Toxic Gas While Cleaning Temple Well in Madhya Pradesh: CM Mohan Yadav Announces ₹4 Lakh Compensation Per Family
A tragic incident occurred in Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh, where eight workers lost their lives due to inhaling toxic gas while cleaning a well in preparation for a temple festival. In response, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has ordered a compensation of ₹4 lakh to be provided to the families of each deceased victim.
Incident Details:
The incident took place in the Saikhan Maghan area, where preparations were underway for the annual festival at the Gangour Amman Temple. As part of the arrangements, a well located within the temple premises was being cleaned.
The tragedy began when the first worker descended into the well and became trapped in the sludge at the bottom. In an attempt to rescue him, seven other workers followed, one after the other, into the well.
However, the well contained a buildup of toxic gases—likely methane or hydrogen sulfide—leading to immediate respiratory distress. All eight workers lost consciousness due to the gas exposure.
Rescue Operations:
Upon receiving the alert, fire and emergency services rushed to the spot and began rescue operations. After hours of effort, they were able to retrieve all eight individuals from the well. Unfortunately, by the time they were brought up, all were declared dead.
Post-Mortem and Investigation:
The bodies of the deceased were sent to the government hospital for autopsy. Doctors confirmed that the deaths were caused by asphyxiation due to exposure to poisonous gases. The district collector has stated that a detailed investigation into the incident is underway, including whether proper safety precautions were followed.
Government Response:
Reacting swiftly to the tragic news, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav issued orders to grant financial relief of ₹4 lakh to each of the deceased workers’ families. The official notification for this relief measure is expected to be issued soon.
Public Outrage:
Local residents have expressed deep sorrow and anger over the incident. Many criticized the lack of safety protocols and the negligence in sending workers into a hazardous environment without proper protective equipment. “If precautionary measures had been in place, these deaths could have been avoided,” one local resident said.
Conclusion:
This heartbreaking incident highlights the urgent need for strict adherence to safety standards, especially for laborers involved in hazardous tasks. Governments and private organizations alike must ensure that no worker is sent into life-threatening conditions without adequate protection and safety protocols.
