Bhubaneswar, Jan. 4 -- A major explosion was reported at a stone quarry under Motanga police station limits in Dhenkanal district in Odisha on Saturday night, triggering concern over possible casualties and alleged illegal mining activities.

The blast was reported from an illegal quarry near Gopalpur, though authorities said no confirmed information on deaths or injuries was available at the time of reporting. Officials said the incident came to light late on Saturday, following which the local administration and police rushed to the site and secured the area.

Upon receiving information, the Odapada Tehsildar and personnel from Motanga police station reached the quarry and initiated a preliminary investigation. The entire area was cordo...