MCD Takes Stern Action Following Fatal Accident, Demands Immediate Safety Compliance
In a decisive move prompted by a tragic incident, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has issued stringent directives to ensure uniform implementation of safety protocols across all construction and maintenance sites within the capital. The corporation has mandated all deputy commissioners to submit detailed action taken reports within a strict three-day deadline, underscoring the urgency of the matter.
Background: A Fatal Incident Triggers Immediate Response
The directive follows the unfortunate death of a man who fell into an open Delhi Jal Board (DJB) pit in Janakpuri on February 6. This incident has highlighted critical lapses in safety measures, compelling the MCD to take immediate corrective action. A circular issued by the additional commissioner of the engineering wing on Tuesday explicitly stated, "This is unacceptable. The chief secretary, Delhi government, already issued directions on February 7, and the norms should be adhered to in letter and spirit."
Comprehensive Safety Mandates Outlined in MCD Circular
The circular emphasizes that inadequate safety measures pose significant risks to public life, particularly endangering pedestrians, vulnerable road users, and construction workers. To address these concerns, the MCD has laid out a comprehensive set of mandatory requirements:
- Site-Specific Safety Measures: All work sites must implement proper barricading, signage, lighting, reflective tapes, and other essential safety norms without exception.
- Structural and Equipment Standards: No construction activity shall proceed without approved scaffolding, fencing, railings, and safe excavation procedures. All hoisting machines and supports must conform to prescribed technical standards.
- Worker Protection Protocols: Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be available on-site at all times. Furthermore, the circular strictly prohibits the engagement of individuals below 18 years in hazardous activities, including lead painting.
- Special Provisions for High-Risk Sites: Life-saving equipment is mandatory at locations with drowning risks, ensuring preparedness for emergencies.
Enhanced Traffic Management and Urban Safety Protocols
Recognizing the urban context, the MCD has also mandated robust traffic management measures at all work zones. These include:
- Implementation of advance warning systems to alert commuters.
- Installation of retro-reflective signage, cones, barricades, delineators, and adequate lighting devices.
- Creation of protected pathways and speed control mechanisms specifically for vulnerable road users.
The circular firmly states, "No site will be allowed to operate without these arrangements," leaving no room for non-compliance.
Accountability and Enforcement Mechanisms
To ensure adherence, the MCD has instituted a strict accountability framework. Deputy commissioners are tasked with overseeing immediate corrective measures and must provide strong justifications for any delays. Additionally, all junior engineers and sanitary inspectors have been directed to personally verify that no manhole or pit remains uncovered, with broken covers required to be replaced on the same day.
Monthly safety certificates must now be submitted to zonal deputy commissioners, creating a continuous monitoring system. The circular warns unequivocally, "Officers failing to enforce these directions shall face disciplinary action under relevant service rules without any further notice." This provision underscores the binding nature of the MCD safety code on both contractors and municipal officers.
This proactive stance by the MCD reflects a heightened commitment to urban safety and regulatory compliance, aiming to prevent future tragedies through rigorous enforcement and systematic oversight.
