Malappuram: A mini truck that lost control and plunged nearly 30 feet into a water-filled abandoned quarry at Paridhiyil near Athavanadu in the district on Friday afternoon claimed the life of the cleaner, whose body was recovered after hours long rescue operation. The driver escaped with injuries.

The accident occurred around 1.15 pm when the truck was travelling from Moodal to Athavanadu. Eyewitnesses said the vehicle suddenly veered off the road and fell into the deep quarry along the roadside. Local residents rushed to the scene after hearing a loud crash and managed to rescue the driver, identified as Musthafa, from the partially submerged vehicle.

The cleaner, also identified as Musthafa (45), remained trapped inside the cabin as the truck became fully immersed in water within minutes. The depth of the quarry and rapid flooding made rescue efforts extremely difficult for bystanders.

A scuba diving team from the Fire and Rescue Services launched an intensive operation soon after reaching the spot. After nearly seven hours of effort, the submerged truck was lifted using a crane, and the cleaner's body was recovered from inside the cabin. The rescue attempt ultimately proved futile.

The injured driver has been admitted to Nadakkavil Hospital in Valanchery and is under medical observation.

According to Valanchery police, the truck, belonging to a curry powder marketing company, was travelling along an unfamiliar route as the main road in the area was heavily congested due to the Vairankode Vela festival. The driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, which veered off the road and plunged into the abandoned quarry on the right side.

Meanwhile, local residents alleged that multiple complaints had earlier been submitted to Public Works Department (PWD) authorities seeking safety measures at the site to prevent accidents. They claim no effective steps were taken despite repeated requests.