Tragic Incident in Kolkata as Toddler Falls to Death in Open Elevator Shaft
A devastating incident unfolded in Central Kolkata's Entally area on Wednesday evening, resulting in the tragic death of a three-year-old boy who fell into an open elevator shaft at an under-construction building. The young victim, identified as Pritam Rajbanshi, succumbed to severe injuries despite immediate medical attention.
Chronology of the Heartbreaking Event
According to police sources familiar with the investigation, the sequence of events began around 4:30 PM at a four-storey building located at 4/51 Convent Lane. The child had accompanied his mother, Kajal Kumari, to the rooftop to collect laundry. After completing their task, Kumari reportedly asked her son to begin descending the stairs ahead of her while she gathered their belongings.
When the mother reached the lower floors, she discovered her child was missing, triggering immediate panic and concern. The family promptly reported the disappearance to the Entally Police Station, initiating an urgent search operation throughout the building and surrounding neighborhood.
Discovery and Medical Response
During the intensive search, police officers made the grim discovery of the unconscious child at the bottom of the elevator duct on the ground floor. The toddler was immediately rushed to NRS Medical College and Hospital for emergency medical treatment.
Medical professionals at the hospital declared the boy "brought dead" upon arrival, indicating he had already succumbed to his injuries before reaching medical facilities. Preliminary investigations conducted by authorities suggest the child suffered catastrophic head injuries consistent with a significant fall from height.
Police Investigation and Current Status
While the family has not yet filed a formal complaint regarding the incident, Kolkata police have conducted initial assessments and ruled out foul play at this preliminary stage of investigation. The absence of suspicious circumstances has been noted in official statements from investigating officers.
The child's body has been sent for a comprehensive post-mortem examination to conclusively determine the exact cause of death and gather additional forensic evidence. This standard procedure will provide official medical documentation regarding the nature and extent of injuries sustained during the tragic fall.
Broader Safety Concerns Raised
This heartbreaking incident has sparked serious concerns about safety protocols and preventive measures at construction sites throughout Kolkata, particularly regarding child safety in residential areas undergoing development. Community members and local authorities are questioning the adequacy of safety barriers and warning systems at such locations.
The tragedy highlights the critical need for enhanced safety standards at construction sites, especially in densely populated urban areas where children may be present. Safety advocates are calling for stricter enforcement of existing regulations and improved oversight of construction site security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the investigation continues and the community mourns this profound loss, questions remain about accountability and preventive measures that could have averted this tragedy. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities young children face in urban environments and the collective responsibility to ensure their safety in all settings.
