Two construction workers died after an iron staging structure collapsed at a metro-related work site in Wadala East, prompting the Wadala TT police to register a case against sub-contractor Tariq-ul-Islam, 40, for alleged negligence and lapses in workplace safety.
The incident occurred at around 7.30 pm on September 12 at a construction site near Bhakti Park Monorail Station. Police have registered the case under Section 106(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), relating to death caused by negligence, and are examining the safety arrangements at the site.
Workers Identified as Nahij and Sakim
The case was registered following a complaint by 31-year-old worker Shafikul Mukhtar Hussain, who was working alongside the two deceased labourers. The victims have been identified as Nahij, 33, and Sakim, 37.
According to the FIR, Hussain, Nahij, Sakim and four other workers were staying in the Bhakti Park area and were employed at the construction site. They were carrying out centring, steel-fixing and carpentry work under the supervision of the sub-contractor.
Staging Structure Gives Way
Police said the workers had been working on the first floor during the evening shift. After their duties ended at around 7 pm, they began clearing equipment and preparing to leave the site.
Four workers reportedly used the staircase to reach the ground level. While Hussain was collecting safety belts, helmets and other protective equipment, Nahij and Sakim attempted to descend using an iron staging structure erected as part of the construction work.
The structure reportedly gave way suddenly, causing both workers to fall from the first floor onto the ground. They suffered serious injuries in the incident.
One Dies Before Admission, Other Succumbs During Treatment
Hussain and other workers immediately transported the injured men to Sion Hospital in a private vehicle.
Doctors declared Nahij dead before admission. Sakim was admitted to the intensive care unit for treatment but later succumbed to his injuries.
The police investigation is now focused on the circumstances surrounding the collapse, including the condition and installation of the staging structure and whether prescribed workplace safety measures were followed.
The case against Tariq-ul-Islam has been registered on allegations of negligence, while authorities are continuing to examine the site and relevant circumstances leading to the accident.
The incident has once again drawn attention to safety requirements at major urban construction sites, where workers operate around temporary structures, elevated work areas and heavy equipment. The findings of the police investigation will determine whether any further action is warranted against those responsible for supervising or maintaining the construction arrangements at the site.
Source: The Free Press Journal
