The Beltarodi police have registered a case against a city builder following the death of a 56-year-old man who sustained critical injuries after falling into an uncovered underground water tank at a residential township in Besa. The deceased, Vilas Shaligram Katare, a resident of Ghotal Panjari, was admitted to a private hospital in Dhantoli on April 28 and succumbed to his injuries on April 30.
Details of the Incident
According to police reports, the accident occurred between 5.30 am and 6 am when Katare noticed a damaged water pipeline and allegedly attempted to inspect or repair it. Sources revealed that the wooden plank placed near the open cement water tank collapsed, causing him to fall inside. When a Times of India reporter visited the spot on Tuesday, the tank had reportedly been covered by the builder.
Police Investigation and Charges
Initially, police registered an accidental death report. However, during the investigation, fresh statements recorded from Katare's daughter pointed to alleged negligence. Police sources stated that the complainant alleged that builder Sanjeev alias Sonu Ashok Jaiswal (50) failed to provide adequate safeguards, such as barricades, around the under-construction tank despite the potential danger to residents.
The builder has been booked under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code for negligence leading to death. Further investigations are underway to determine the exact circumstances and any lapses in safety protocols.
