The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided to initiate police action against a contractor following the death of a pedestrian who fell into an uncovered manhole at an ongoing stormwater drain repair site in Sakinaka. The incident has once again raised concerns over safety standards at civic infrastructure projects, particularly during the monsoon.
According to the civic body, the accident occurred on Khairani Road, where 55-year-old Aslam Isak Shaikh reportedly fell into an open manhole left uncovered during drain repair work amid heavy rainfall. Waterlogging and poor visibility are believed to have made the hazard difficult to spot. Although rescue teams from the Mumbai Fire Brigade and other agencies reached the site promptly, the victim could not be saved.
A preliminary inquiry by the BMC reportedly found significant lapses in safety measures at the worksite. In response, Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide ordered the immediate suspension of four civic officials responsible for supervising the project. The officials will remain under suspension until the completion of an internal investigation into possible negligence and failure to enforce prescribed safety protocols.
The civic body has also begun proceedings to blacklist the contractor and has directed that a formal police complaint be lodged. Separately, the police have registered an FIR against the contractor and workers associated with the drainage repair project based on a complaint filed by a civic official. Further investigation is underway.
The incident has intensified scrutiny of safety practices at infrastructure worksites across Mumbai, especially during the monsoon season when drain desilting and repair operations are carried out extensively. Experts have consistently emphasised the need for proper barricading, reflective warning signs, adequate lighting and continuous supervision to minimise risks to pedestrians.
Following the tragedy, the Maharashtra government has directed a comprehensive inspection of manholes across the city. Civic authorities are also reviewing existing worksite safety procedures, with the Sakinaka incident renewing focus on contractor accountability and stricter enforcement of public safety norms during infrastructure maintenance projects.
Source: Prop News Time
