1 killed, 1 hurt in Mormugao landslide

Vasco: A major landslide near Mormugao harbour on Monday afternoon claimed the life of a worker and injured another during retaining wall work along the national highway.

The victim, Manoranjan Bind from Jharkhand, was trapped under debris and later recovered after an intensive rescue operation. Another worker, Rajendra, sustained minor injuries and was admitted to Chicalim sub-district hospital, while two labourers escaped unhurt.

Officials said the landslide was triggered by porous soil weakened by heavy rainfall on Sunday night. South Goa collector Egna Cleetus inspected the site and directed the contractor and PWD authorities to complete the remaining work before the monsoon.

South Goa MP Capt Viriato Fernandes alleged negligence by the contractor, claiming the work lacked proper planning and scientific procedures. Mormugao MLA Sankalp Amonkar termed the incident unfortunate and warned that recurring landslides in the area continue to threaten commuters and residents.