20-year-old worker killed in Veligonda Project tunnel accident
A construction worker from Lucknow died after a mishap inside a tunnel of Andhra Pradesh's Veligonda water project.
A 20‑year‑old construction worker identified as a native of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, lost his life following a mishap inside a tunnel of the Veligonda Project in Andhra Pradesh. The incident, reported by local sources, occurred while workers were engaged in ongoing excavation work for the multi‑billion‑rupee water‑supply scheme.
The Veligonda Project, overseen by the state government, aims to divert water from the Krishna River to drought‑prone districts in the Rayalaseema region. The undertaking involves extensive tunnelling through the Nallamala hills, a task that demands rigorous safety protocols due to the challenging terrain and geological conditions.
According to officials, the accident happened when a section of the tunnel collapsed, trapping the young worker. Rescue teams were dispatched promptly, but despite their efforts, the worker could not be revived. Authorities have launched an inquiry to determine the exact cause of the collapse and to assess whether safety measures were adequately followed.
The tragedy has prompted calls from labor unions and local representatives for stricter enforcement of occupational safety standards at large‑scale infrastructure projects. While the Veligonda Project is expected to benefit millions by augmenting irrigation and drinking‑water supplies, the incident underscores the risks faced by laborers who work in hazardous environments.
The state government has pledged to provide compensation to the worker’s family and to review safety procedures across all ongoing construction sites. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
Original reporting: The Hindu.