The Bihar Urban Infrastructure Development Corporation (Buidco) has imposed a penalty of Rs10 lakh on a contractor for failing to adhere to safety protocols during drain construction near Beur jail in Patna. The punitive measure was taken after a motorcycle rider fell into an open dug-up pit on Monday evening, highlighting serious negligence at the site due to lack of proper barricading and supervision.
Inquiry reveals safety lapses
A Buidco inquiry revealed that the contractor, working under Catchment-V, had not implemented adequate safety measures. Although some barricading was present, no personnel were deployed to monitor or guide the public. This constitutes a clear violation of Clause-IV of the contract, which mandates a comprehensive ‘work safety plan’. Despite receiving written instructions, the contractor failed to comply with the clause.
Strict action and directives
Taking serious note of the incident, Managing Director Animesh Kumar Parashar issued instructions to all contractors and officials, making strict adherence to safety standards mandatory across all Buidco projects in Patna, including drain construction, road works, bridges, and drainage systems. “Barricading alone is not enough. The agency must also deploy personnel at the site so that citizens remain safe and maintain a safe distance,” Parashar emphasised. He warned that any repeat of such incidents would not be tolerated and directed project officers to conduct regular checks.
Show-cause notice and further action
Buidco has issued a show-cause notice to the agency, asking it to respond within two days. Along with the fine, further actions may include forfeiture of the bank guarantee, debarment from future tenders, and criminal proceedings under the Disaster Management Act.
