Delhi Authorities Enforce Strict Safety Protocols After Fatal Pit Accident
In the wake of a tragic incident where a 25-year-old biker lost his life after falling into an open pit in West Delhi, the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) department have issued stringent directives to all engineers. The orders mandate strict adherence to safety measures, with warnings that any negligence will result in serious consequences.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The victim, identified as Kamal Dhyani, was discovered on Friday morning at the bottom of a deep pit in Janakpuri, West Delhi. He was found covered in mud, still wearing his red helmet, with his motorcycle lying nearby. Just hours before his death, Dhyani had spoken to his brother, assuring him he would be home soon. The pit, measuring approximately six metres long, four metres wide, and four metres deep, had been excavated by the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) as part of a major drainage network revamp project.
Government Response and Suspensions
Following the tragedy, the government launched an inquiry to determine accountability. As a result, three officials involved in the project—a junior engineer, an assistant engineer, and an executive engineer—were suspended. This swift action underscores the authorities' commitment to addressing safety lapses and preventing future accidents.
New Safety Directives Issued
In a fresh order issued on Friday, Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of PWD, Naveen Kumar Chaudhary, emphasized the critical need for safety compliance. He stated that the fatal accident serves as a stark reminder of the inadequate safety norms often observed by various work-executing authorities. Chaudhary directed that all construction and maintenance activities on roads or adjacent areas must implement prescribed safeguards, including barricades, signboards, diversion signage, and reflector lights.
Specific Measures for Drainage and Construction Sites
The order further specifies that for drains running alongside roads, immediate measures must be taken to prevent vehicles or pedestrians from falling in. Engineers are required to erect permanent walling or temporary crash barriers at all vulnerable locations within 24 hours. Additionally, for building construction or manual drainage cleaning, strict adherence to safety protocols—such as the use of helmets, boots, green safety nets, and other measures outlined in manuals—is mandatory.
Warning Against Negligence
Chaudhary issued a stern warning, stating that any accidents resulting from negligence or a casual approach by officers will lead to strict and serious action against the responsible chief engineers, assistant executive engineers, or junior engineers. This directive aims to instill a culture of accountability and prioritize human safety in all public works projects across the national capital.
