Deadly rockslide at Indonesian quarry claims lives of at least 13 individuals, leaves 12 More hurt
In Cirebon, West Java, a limestone quarry in Cipanas village experienced a devastating collapse on May 30, 2025, with 13 confirmed fatalities and over a dozen injured workers as of the latest updates. The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. local time at the Gunung Kuda mining site, leaving heavy equipment such as three excavators and up to six trucks buried beneath the rubble. Rescue efforts have been hampered by fears of further rockfalls leading to a temporary suspension and resumption the following day.
The quarry had been legally operating, yet West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi declared it was evident that safety standards were lacking, prompting an immediate order for the mine's closure. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the collapse, focusing on potential safety lapses and any possible negligence from the mine owner and workers.
To provide some context, this wasn't the first incident at this mine—parts of it collapsed back in February without reports of casualties. However, the recent collapse caused the loss of multiple lives and raises concerns about the safety conditions in the region's mining sector.
While the ongoing investigation uncovers more details, it is crucial for the industry to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of workers and equipment. The combined efforts of government agencies, mine owners, and labor unions will hopefully pave the way for a safer and more regulated mining sector in West Java.
The collapse of the limestone quarry in Cirebon's Cipanas village, an incident that claimed 13 lives and injured over a dozen workers, has raised concerns about safety conditions in the West Java mining industry. As the general news spreads, it is imperative for the arts and finance sectors, along with the industry itself, to lend their support to the government's efforts in ensuring better safety in the mining sector, especially through regulations and inspection of mine operations.
