How Did a Toddler Fall from the 12th-Floor Balcony in Maharashtra's Palghar?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Tragic accident resulted in the death of a toddler.
- Safety features like protective grills are lacking in many balconies.
- Community in shock and mourning.
- Immediate investigation launched by local authorities.
- Urgent need for enhanced child safety measures in high-rises.
New Delhi, July 23 (NationPress) A heartbreaking incident occurred at Navkar Phase One Society in Naigaon, Maharashtra's Palghar district, where a 3-year-old girl tragically lost her life after plummeting from the 12th floor of a residential high-rise.
The young victim has been identified as Anvika Prajapati, who resided in Room 1201, B-1 Wing, with her family.
The unfortunate event took place around 8 p.m. on Tuesday when Anvika was visiting a relative's apartment in A-3 Wing, Room 1202, on the same level.
Preliminary reports indicate that while playing, Anvika climbed onto a slipper stand on the balcony. In a devastating turn of events, she lost her footing and fell directly from the 12th floor.
The balcony, where she climbed onto the slipper stand, reportedly lacked a protective grill, highlighting a significant safety oversight.
Her family immediately rushed her to Sir D.M. Petit Hospital in Vasai, but the medical staff pronounced her dead on arrival. The entire community is engulfed in shock and mourning following this tragedy.
Residents have expressed concern that many balconies in the 14-storey towers of the society are devoid of essential safety features like protective grills. This absence is believed to have played a critical role in this tragic incident. Neighbors assert that if proper safety measures had been implemented, this young life could have been preserved.
"This is a profound reminder of the necessity of childproofing homes, particularly in high-rise buildings. A moment of negligence has resulted in endless sorrow," remarked a neighbor who witnessed the aftermath.
The atmosphere within the society is thick with grief, sparking widespread outrage and concern among residents regarding the lack of necessary safety infrastructure.
This incident has reignited discussions about the urgent need for enhanced child safety protocols in high-rise residential complexes.
The Naigaon Police have filed an Accidental Death Report (ADR), and an investigation is currently underway.