Tue Jun 17 16:55:14 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text followed by a news article rewrite:
**Summary:**
A stone quarry operator in Mallakottai, near Singampunari, India, has been fined ₹91 crore (approximately $11 million USD) after a drone survey revealed they illegally quarried stones exceeding their permitted license level. This follows the death of six workers at the quarry in May, which led to the cancellation of the quarry’s license and the arrest of three men. The Devakottai sub-collector imposed the fine, and similar drone surveys are being conducted at other quarry sites in the district.
**News Article:**
**Stone Quarry Operator Fined ₹91 Crore After Fatal Accident and Illegal Quarrying**
**SIVAGANGA, India – June 17, 2025** – A stone quarry operator in Mallakottai, near Singampunari, has been hit with a ₹91 crore (approximately $11 million USD) fine after a fatal accident and subsequent investigation revealed extensive illegal quarrying. The fine was levied by Devakottai Sub-Collector Ayush Venkat Vats on Tuesday.
The move comes in response to the death of six workers at the quarry in May 2025. Following the tragedy, District Collector Asha Ajith revoked the quarry’s license, citing operations exceeding the authorized period. S.S. Kottai police registered a case, leading to the arrest of three individuals for questioning.
A drone survey of the quarry was then conducted, revealing that the operator had extracted significantly more stones than permitted under their license. This led to the substantial fine being imposed.
“The survey clearly indicated a violation of the quarry’s operational limits,” stated Sub-Collector Vats. “We are committed to ensuring accountability and preventing future incidents.”
Authorities have also ordered drone surveys of other quarry sites throughout the district to ensure compliance with regulations. The incident has sparked renewed scrutiny of quarrying practices and safety standards in the region.
First Piper 