Several B Ed aspirants fell into a sewage drain outside a shop in Kanpur's Nagar Nigam market area after a slab collapsed on Sunday. The incident occurred when the candidates had gone to a shop to get photocopies of necessary documents.
Details of the Incident
According to Police Commissioner Raghubir Lal, the aspirants were standing outside the shop when the slab beneath them suddenly gave way, causing them to fall into the open sewage drain below. The drain was covered by a concrete slab that had weakened over time.
Local residents and shopkeepers rushed to the scene to help the victims. Rescue operations were launched immediately, and all the aspirants were pulled out safely. Some of them sustained minor injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Response from Authorities
Police Commissioner Raghubir Lal visited the site and assured that strict action would be taken against those responsible for the poor maintenance of the drain cover. He said that a thorough investigation would be conducted to prevent such incidents in the future.
The Nagar Nigam (municipal corporation) has been asked to inspect all similar structures in the market area and ensure they are safe for public use. The corporation has also been directed to repair the damaged slab and secure the drain.
Background
Kanpur has witnessed several incidents of infrastructure failures in recent years, raising concerns about public safety. The Nagar Nigam market area is a busy commercial hub, and many students and office-goers frequent the shops there.
The B Ed aspirants were preparing for their exams and had come to the market to get photocopies of their documents. The incident has left them shaken, but they are grateful to be alive.
Public Reaction
Local residents have expressed anger over the negligence of the municipal authorities. They demanded immediate action to repair all dangerous structures in the area. Some shopkeepers said that the slab had been in a dilapidated condition for months, but no action was taken despite complaints.
The police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and are investigating the matter further.
