A 26-year-old man died this afternoon after a mine collapsed in Pinnawala, Balangoda, authorities said.
The victim was reportedly working inside the mine with several others when an earth mound suddenly caved in, trapping him beneath. A rescue operation lasting nearly two hours was launched to free the individual.
He was rushed to the Balangoda Hospital but was pronounced dead upon admission, hospital sources confirmed.
Another man who sustained minor injuries during the incident has also been admitted to the same hospital for treatment.
Police have launched an investigation into the tragic incident.
