6 die of suspected asphyxiation inside under-construction septic tank in Odisha’s Kalahandi

At least six people died of suspected asphyxiation after getting trapped inside an under-construction septic tank in Odisha’s Kalahandi district on Tuesday, as per reports.

The incident reportedly took place at Gauda Karlakhunta village under Madanpur-Rampur police station limits when workers entered the septic tank to remove centring materials from the structure and suspect that toxic gases accumulated inside the tank caused the men to lose consciousness.

According to reports, one worker first entered the tank but did not return, possibly after collapsing due to breathing difficulties. Six others then entered one after another in an attempt to rescue him, but they too became unconscious inside the chamber.

As per reports, the septic tank had been constructed around three weeks ago and toxic gas may have accumulated due to heat inside the enclosed structure. A case of unnatural death has been registered, and the exact cause will be determined after post-mortem examinations.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reportedly expressed grief over the tragedy and announced an ex gratia of ₹4 lakh each from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for the next of kin of the deceased.

As per reports, Kalahandi Collector Sachin Pawar said the district administration has also provided ₹30,000 to each bereaved family for last rites. Odisha Works Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan reportedly said the government would take steps to prevent such incidents in the future.