Koraput: In a tragic incident, two workers lost their lives while another sustained critical injuries after suffocating inside an under-construction septic tank in Kotpad block of Koraput district on Thursday.

The deceased have been identified as Hemant Thakur and Haran Pratyasha. According to reports, the workers had entered the tank during construction work in Chandili village but fell unconscious due to a suspected lack of oxygen inside the confined space.

Upon receiving information, police rushed to the spot and initiated an investigation. The critically injured worker was rescued and admitted to a nearby hospital, where he is currently undergoing treatment.

Initial findings indicate oxygen deficiency inside the tank may have caused the suffocation. Authorities have launched a detailed probe to ascertain the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.

Police officials said appropriate legal action will be taken against those found responsible for negligence leading to the mishap.