The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has taken strict action against a contractor and consultant following the tragic death of a supervisor at a Metro Line 9 construction site in Mira Road. The authority has imposed significant financial penalties and ordered a comprehensive safety investigation into the incident that claimed the life of 42-year-old Farhan Ahmed.
Hefty Penalties for Safety Failures
MMRDA has slapped a Rs 50 lakh penalty on contractor N A Constructions and a Rs 5 lakh penalty on general consultant Systra for alleged safety protocol violations. The penalties were announced two days after the fatal accident that occurred during construction work for the much-anticipated Metro Line 9 project.
The development authority has initiated a detailed probe into all safety aspects of the project, focusing specifically on whether contractors followed mandated safety protocols including proper use of safety harnesses, installation of guardrails, and maintaining adequate supervision standards.
Tragic Incident at Saibaba Nagar Site
The unfortunate incident took place at the Saibaba Nagar construction site where steel materials were being arranged for building a new metro station. Farhan Ahmed, 42, was actively supervising the work and providing instructions to laborers when the accident occurred.
According to preliminary reports, Ahmed stepped aside to avoid a swinging steel section when he lost his balance and fell from a height estimated between 60 to 70 feet. The supervisor was immediately rushed to Pandit Bhimsen Joshi Government Hospital in Bhayandar, where doctors declared him dead upon arrival.
Compensation and Ongoing Investigation
While the investigation continues, MMRDA has announced immediate relief measures for the victim's family. An official statement confirmed that Rs 5 lakh compensation has been provided to Ahmed's family, with additional insurance compensation to follow.
"The inquiry is being conducted by the general consultant of Metro Line 4 to ascertain the exact cause and lapses," stated an MMRDA official. "To provide relief to the family of the deceased, we have given a compensation of Rs 5 lakh. Insurance compensation will also be provided. Further action will follow after the inquiry report is submitted."
Local police have registered an accidental death report in the matter. The ongoing investigation will determine whether further administrative or legal action is warranted against the involved parties based on the final findings about safety protocol implementation and monitoring effectiveness.
