What Led to the Tunnel Collapse Near Mhow That Left Two Dead?
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Synopsis
In a tragic incident near Choral, two workers lost their lives due to the collapse of an under-construction tunnel on the Indore-Ichhapur National Highway. The investigation will focus on safety protocols amid ongoing monsoon risks. This story sheds light on the urgent need for stricter construction safety measures.
Key Takeaways
- Two workers died in a tunnel collapse due to heavy rainfall.
- Investigation launched to evaluate safety protocols.
- Tunnel part of a major infrastructure project.
- Urgent calls for enhanced construction safety measures.
- The tunnel was set to open in June 2026.
Bhopal, June 25 (NationPress) Tragically, two workers lost their lives on Wednesday following the collapse of a section of an under-construction tunnel near Choral along the Indore-Ichhapur National Highway, according to officials.
The incident transpired around 4 a.m. at Tunnel Number 3, which is part of a significant infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing connectivity between Indore and Khandwa.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Umakant Choudhary informed IANS, stating, "Continuous heavy rainfall led to the loosening of the surrounding soil, resulting in the collapse. The outer structure of the tunnel gave way. One worker perished at the scene, while the other succumbed to injuries at a hospital."
Furthermore, the official noted, "A MERG report has been filed, and an investigation will commence once post-mortem results are available. The inquiry will examine if safety measures were adequately implemented, particularly during this risky monsoon period."
The deceased have been identified as Vikas Rai, 29, from Jhonka Vermasia in Jharkhand's Giridih district, and Lalji Kaul, a resident of Singrauli in Madhya Pradesh.
According to the officer, both individuals were reportedly residing in a labor camp near the construction site. Rai was killed instantly after being buried under debris, while Kaul was first taken to a private hospital in Mhow and then transferred to Maharaja Yeshwantrao Hospital in Indore, where he later passed away.
Officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and local authorities quickly arrived at the scene to manage rescue efforts and evaluate the structural stability of the remaining sections of the tunnel.
This tunnel, being constructed by a private firm based in Hyderabad, is part of a 4.1-km segment designed to decrease travel time and enhance road safety by minimizing sharp turns along the highway.
Recent clearing work was completed at both ends of the tunnel, and reinforcement was in progress.
It was anticipated that the tunnel would be opened for traffic by June 2026.
This incident has reignited concerns regarding construction safety standards in the area.
Earlier, a similar tragedy occurred in Jhabua district, where the roof of an under-construction cinema hall collapsed, resulting in the deaths of two workers and injuries to three others.
This particular project was reportedly undertaken without the necessary permissions, raising significant concerns about regulatory oversight and enforcement.
Point of View
I urge a comprehensive review of construction safety protocols across the nation. This incident underscores the need for stringent regulatory oversight to prevent such tragedies. We must prioritize the lives of workers through rigorous safety standards, especially during adverse weather conditions.
NationPress
25/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the tunnel collapse near Mhow?
The tunnel collapse was triggered by persistent heavy rainfall that loosened the surrounding soil, resulting in the outer face of the tunnel giving way.
Who were the victims of the tunnel collapse?
The victims were identified as Vikas Rai, 29, from Jharkhand, and Lalji Kaul from Madhya Pradesh.
What actions are being taken following the incident?
A MERG report has been filed, and an investigation will be initiated to assess compliance with safety protocols.
When was the tunnel expected to open?
The tunnel was scheduled to be opened for traffic in June 2026.
Have there been similar incidents recently?
Yes, a recent incident in Jhabua district involved a cinema hall roof collapse, raising concerns about construction safety.
