Tamil Nadu: Woman killed, another injured as paddy bags collapse at state-run godown
Thanjavur, July 7: A woman was killed and another injured after stacked paddy bags collapsed on them at a Tamil Nadu Civil Supplies Corporation (TNCSC) storage facility in R. Suthipattu hamlet, near Thanjavur, on Monday morning.
The deceased has been identified as Chinnaponnu, a resident of R. Suthipattu. The injured, Sakunthala, from the same hamlet, has been admitted to the Thanjavur Medical College and Hospital, where she is receiving medical treatment.
According to preliminary inquiries, the incident occurred around 10 a.m. while the women, employed as contract workers, were engaged in routine cleaning and maintenance work at the cover and plinth (CAP) storage point. The paddy bags, stored in stacks, suddenly gave way and trapped the two workers under the weight.
Chinnaponnu succumbed to her injuries on the spot. Sakunthala was rescued and rushed to the hospital, where doctors say her condition is stable.
The Thanjavur Taluk police have registered a case of accidental death and are investigating the circumstances leading to the collapse. Officials from the TNCSC have assured cooperation with the investigation.
This incident highlights safety concerns at storage facilities where large quantities of grain are stacked. Contract workers, often women, are employed for manual handling tasks without adequate safety protocols. The state government has been urged to review safety measures at such godowns to prevent future tragedies.
The local panchayat has expressed grief over the loss of life and called for compensation to the victim's family. District authorities have promised a thorough probe and necessary assistance to the affected families.
