Karnataka: Explosion at quarry kills eight, two detained

Those who died in the blast were said to be transporting gelatin for mining in a truck. The heavy vehicle was completely destroyed in the incident.

Earlier, the jolt was mistaken as an earthquake but geologists ruled out this possibility. No seismic activity, usually recorded at depth of 15-20 km was confirmed by 11 pm.

"There was no earthquake," a cop told PTI.

The entire area was quickly sealed off. "So far we have seen two bodies and many are feared dead inside the quarry. Bomb disposal teams will reach here from Mangaluru and Bengaluru in a few hours," a senior cop told NDTV.

He added that no one will be allowed inside till the squads arrive as live explosives could still be present.

Reportedly, glasses were also shattered in a couple of houses, far from the site.

KB Ashok Naik, MLA from Shivamogga, told Deccan Chronicle that thick nauseating smoke engulfed the entire area.

"No official has been able to reach the spot due to the intense smoke. However, locals have been able to retrieve the bodies of five laborers from the blast site," he said.

To note, Shivamogga is the home district of Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa.

Taking to Twitter on Friday, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader said he has been in touch with senior officials since last night and that rescue teams have been sent.

He revealed that a high-level investigation has also been ordered. The CM also hoped that the injured get well soon.