Could the Delhi Government's Inquiry Prevent More Tragedies After Biker's Fatal Fall into DJB Pit?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Feb 6 (NationPress) A tragic incident occurred on Thursday night when a 25-year-old bank employee, while cycling, fell into a 20-foot-deep pit associated with a Delhi Jal Board (DJB) project in Janakpuri, West Delhi. The pit was covered with green mesh but proved inadequate for safety. In light of this accident, the Delhi government has launched an investigation.
The victim, Kamal Dhayani, a resident of Vikaspuri, was retrieved from the pit by fire department personnel around 8:30 a.m. on Friday, as confirmed by police reports. Consequently, a case has been filed under applicable legal provisions.
This incident resonates with another recent tragedy involving a techie, Yuvraj Mehta, who died after falling into a waterlogged pit in Noida. It has ignited a political uproar, with the opposition Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) criticizing the government's negligence.
In response, Delhi Water Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh expressed grave concern over the event and has instructed a thorough investigation.
“We are taking a serious approach to the unfortunate accident at the Janakpuri Line Rehabilitation Project. The Delhi Jal Board is forming a high-level Inquiry Committee to ensure a transparent investigation,” the Minister stated via social media.
The Committee has been tasked with inspecting the site, reviewing safety measures, barricading, signage, and traffic management. They are also to verify compliance with safety regulations, identify accountability for any lapses, and suggest appropriate corrective actions.
The Minister emphasized that the safety of citizens is a top priority. “We will enforce accountability and ensure such incidents do not occur again,” he affirmed.
The Delhi Jal Board later issued a statement indicating that their initial inquiry showed the road and the pit were barricaded. A committee has been set up to determine if all necessary safety precautions were implemented.
Any official or employee of the DJB found negligent will face consequences, according to the statement.
Supreme Court Lawyer Prashant Trivedi remarked that actions could be taken against those responsible, and the department may be held accountable. He noted that all responsibilities would be assessed, including precautionary measures and advisories prior to excavation.
Dhayani's brother shared with IANS that he last spoke to Kamal around 11:30 p.m., when his brother mentioned he was nearing the District Centre and would be home in 15 minutes. After he failed to answer their subsequent calls, the family contacted the police.