Delhi Jal Board Engineers Suspended Following Fatal Construction Pit Accident in Janakpuri
Three engineers from the Delhi Jal Board have been suspended after a motorcyclist tragically died on Friday by allegedly falling into a construction pit excavated by the water agency. The incident occurred in the Janakpuri area of West Delhi, prompting immediate government intervention.
Minister Orders Comprehensive Safety Review
Water Minister Parvesh Verma has directed a thorough safety audit of all ongoing sewer, road, and flood control projects across Delhi. Following the Janakpuri tragedy, Verma personally inspected the construction site associated with a sewer pipeline rehabilitation project and mandated the suspension of the Delhi Jal Board officers.
"We are suspending three officers: an executive engineer, assistant engineer, and junior engineer. It was their duty to monitor the progress of the work ongoing here," Verma stated, as reported by officials.
Initial Findings Reveal Safety Lapses
Preliminary observations indicate that although certain road sections were barricaded, safety measures around the excavation site did not fully meet prescribed standards. Two-wheelers continued to operate nearby, raising serious safety concerns.
"The tragedy has caused deep pain to the affected family, and the government stands firmly with them in this difficult time. Public safety is paramount. Any failure in adhering to established safety standards will be dealt with strictly, both administratively and contractually," Verma emphasized.
Contractors Under Investigation and Compensation Announced
The minister confirmed that contractors involved in the project are under investigation. If violations are discovered, strict actions will be taken, including potential blacklisting from future projects. Additionally, Verma announced that ex gratia compensation will be provided to the victim's family.
According to the minister, preliminary inspection revealed an excavation pit measuring approximately six meters in length, four meters in width, and around 4.25 meters in depth, created as part of the ongoing sewer project.
Delhi Jal Board's Safety Measures and Inquiry Committee
Delhi Jal Board officials disclosed that detailed safety advisories were issued on January 24 following a similar incident in Noida. These advisories instructed all officials and agencies to enforce strict barricading, signage, and public safety measures at all work sites.
The Board has also established a high-level inquiry committee tasked with:
- Identifying responsibility for the incident
- Examining procedural flaws
- Suggesting corrective actions to prevent future occurrences
Officials noted that while work at the site has been ongoing for three months, the pit was only excavated on Thursday, the day before the accident.
