Hill collapse during Highway work in Kasargod kills one, injures two

Hill collapse during Highway work in Kasargod kills one, injures two

Mangalore Today News Network

Kasargod, May 13, 2025: A tragic landslide occurred on Monday afternoon in Cheruvathur during ongoing National Highway (NH) development work, claiming the life of one labourer and seriously injuring two others. A fourth worker escaped with minor injuries.

The incident took place near Muttalayi, where road widening and infrastructure work was in progress under the NH project. A portion of a hill collapsed unexpectedly, burying workers beneath the debris.

 

 

 

The deceased has been identified as Mumtaz Mir (18), a native of West Bengal. Two others — Munal Laskar (55) and Mehan Tejar (18), also from West Bengal — suffered critical injuries and were admitted to a private hospital in Cheruvathur. Another worker sustained only minor injuries.

Rescue efforts were led by the Fire and Emergency Services with support from local police. After several hours, all three buried labourers were recovered. Mumtaz Mir was found dead at the scene, and his body was transported to the mortuary at Kannur Government Medical College.

Eyewitnesses reported that several workers narrowly escaped as the hillside gave way.

District In-charge Minister A K Saseendran has ordered a detailed inquiry into the cause of the collapse. “A comprehensive report must be submitted, and preventive measures ensured for future projects,” he stated.

Top officials, including District Collector K Imbashhekhar, Superintendent of Police Vijay Bharat Reddy, and National Highway Authority Project Director Umesh Ghar, visited the site for inspection.

The incident has spotlighted serious concerns over labour safety and terrain stability in highway construction zones. Authorities are expected to re-evaluate safety protocols and enforce stricter guidelines to protect workers.