9 Workers Dead After Waste Landslide at India Energy Plant

New Delhi. Nine workers have died when a pile of garbage collapsed at a waste-to-energy plant in the western region of India after heavy rains. The center's operator informed about the incident by issuing a statement on Monday.

In India, due to heavy rains during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, accidents related to buildings and infrastructure occur. Prolonged rain increases the risk of weak structures collapsing or landslides.

The accident occurred last Wednesday at the 'Antony Waste' waste processing center located in the outskirts of Pune city. Thousands of tons of garbage from a nearby landfill collapsed, burying 23 people who were in the administrative building.

The company's statement mentioned that the building was damaged by the falling garbage due to the landfill becoming unstable due to continuous rain. The company stated that nine people died and 14 were rescued alive.

Officials said that the rescue team had to work in difficult conditions due to the rain, and there were challenges in rescuing those trapped under the debris. The operation of the center has been temporarily stopped until structural and safety checks are completed.

According to scientists, due to climate change, the frequency and intensity of heavy rainfall, heat, and other extreme weather events are increasing in India. Meteorologists have said that the possible powerful 'El Niño' weather effect this year could also affect India's normal weather cycle.