Noida Scaffolding Collapse: Families Receive Interim Relief and Compensation
The district administration in Noida has taken swift action following a tragic accident at an under-construction commercial building in Sector 142. On Sunday afternoon, a scaffolding collapse resulted in the deaths of two labourers and left another worker injured. In response, the administration has provided interim financial relief of Rs 1 lakh each to the families of the deceased.
Compensation Deposited Under Workmen's Compensation Act
In a significant development, the employer of the labourers has deposited a substantial sum of Rs 30 lakh with the Employee Compensation Commissioner. This amount is being processed under the provisions of the Workmen's Compensation Act and is designated for distribution to the families of the victims. Assistant Labour Commissioner Suyash Pandey confirmed that the funds will be disbursed as Rs 15 lakh each to the legal heirs of the two deceased labourers once all necessary formalities are completed.
Victims Identified and Additional Assistance Possible
The deceased workers have been identified as Mantu, originally from Banka district in Bihar, and Shibu Kumar, hailing from Dumka district in Jharkhand. The injured worker is currently receiving medical treatment at a private hospital in the city. Pandey further elaborated that the labour department is actively verifying whether the deceased workers were officially registered with their department. If this registration is confirmed, their families could become eligible for an additional assistance of Rs 5 lakh each under relevant welfare schemes.
Joint Inspection and Ongoing Investigation
Following the fatal incident, a comprehensive joint inspection was conducted at the accident site. The inspection team included the SDM Sadar, officials from the labour and factories departments, and police personnel. During this inspection, the contractor responsible for the site was directed to submit all documents pertaining to worker registration and establishment compliance. Officials reported that the contractor requested additional time to furnish these crucial records.
Brijesh Kumar, Deputy Director of the Factories Department in GB Nagar, stated that the investigation is proceeding methodically. The department plans to gather statements from other workers present at the site to thoroughly assess any potential negligence. A complete scrutiny of safety compliance measures will be undertaken after all relevant documents have been examined. This process is critical for determining accountability and preventing similar tragedies in the future.
The accident has highlighted ongoing concerns about construction site safety protocols in rapidly developing urban areas. The administration's prompt provision of relief and the initiation of a detailed investigation underscore the seriousness with which this incident is being treated. The focus remains on supporting the affected families while ensuring that all regulatory and safety standards are rigorously enforced to protect workers' lives.
