Prayagraj Cold Storage Collapse: Committee Intensifies Probe, Report Expected Soon
In Prayagraj, the 11-member committee led by the ADM (finance) continued its investigation into the recent cold storage collapse incident in Phaphamau, conducting a detailed site inspection for the second consecutive day on Wednesday. The panel, which includes officials from the administration, fire department, Public Works Department (PWD), and police, has been actively compiling crucial documents and evidence related to the structural failure.
Committee Engages with Laborers and Advances Investigation
The committee members engaged in discussions with laborers connected to the incident, gathering firsthand accounts to understand the circumstances leading to the collapse. According to officials, the committee is likely to submit its comprehensive report to the administration by next week, providing insights into the causes and responsibilities behind the disaster.
Safety Measures and Facility Conditions Under Scrutiny
Investigations have revealed significant lapses in safety and maintenance at the cold storage facility. It was found that neither regular maintenance was conducted nor were adequate safety measures implemented. Additionally, laborers were not provided with the required training and were working without the supervision of qualified technicians, highlighting clear violations of established safety standards.
Operational Updates and Recovery Efforts
On the operational front, officials reported that both ammonia chambers of the cold storage have been successfully neutralized as of Wednesday, while the remaining two chambers are currently under thorough inspection. Efforts are actively underway to retrieve potatoes belonging to farmers that were stored inside the chambers, with a total of seven JCBs, two excavators, and nine dumpers deployed for debris removal to facilitate recovery operations.
Administrative Actions and Political Response
A senior official disclosed that a preliminary report has already been forwarded to the administration, and the committee's final findings are anticipated next week. In response to the incident, the district horticulture officer has been suspended following a verification report that confirmed negligence in oversight duties.
Meanwhile, a Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) panel, acting on directives from party chief Mayawati, visited the Phaphamau facility on Wednesday to assess the situation and gather information, reflecting the political attention the incident has garnered.
This probe underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of safety protocols in industrial facilities to prevent such tragedies in the future.
