Amaravati:The Andhra Pradesh government on Sunday announced payment of ex-gratia relief of Rs 10 lakh each to the kin of the 10 workers killed in an explosion at a limestone mine in Kadapa district on May 8.
Minister for Mines and Geology P R C Reddy said in a statement that an inquiry committee has been constituted with Kadapa district Joint Collector (Revenue) as the head to conduct a detailed probe into the mishap.
Citing a preliminary report submitted by the Kadapa district Collector, the Mines Minister said negligence on part of the mine operator while unloading the explosive material (gelatin sticks) caused the explosion.
While one C Kasturibai secured the mining lease in 2001 till November 1, 2021, it was being operated by C Nageswara Reddy under a general power of attorney since December 2013.
''Rules and procedures were not followed while unloading the explosive material. Hence, we will take action against the mine operator as per the mining laws, Reddy said.