18 Workers Killed in Tragic Mishap as Girder Collapses on Under-Construction Highway
In a devastating incident, 18 workers lost their lives when a girder collapsed at an under-construction highway in Shahapur, Maharashtra. The mishap occurred while nine engineers and several workers were launching the girder. Thane Disaster Response Force (TDRF) officials swiftly responded to the incident and, alongside the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), began rescue operations to retrieve the bodies of the victims.
Initially, authorities received a distress call reporting a crane falling on workers. However, upon reaching the site, they discovered that the entire girder launcher, along with the girder itself, had collapsed onto the workers. The exact cause of this tragic accident is still under investigation, with the rescue operation ongoing to ensure the safety of any survivors.
Dadaji Bhuse, a minister from Maharashtra, hurried to the scene late at night to assess the situation. Expressing his condolences, he stated, It is a very unfortunate incident, and the reason behind it remains unknown. The rescue operation is still in progress. Shahapur police and various technical teams are currently present at the site, assisting with the investigation.
The deceased workers hailed from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow for the loss of lives and announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh for the families of each deceased worker. Additionally, ₹50,000 would be provided for those injured through the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.
In a tweet, PM Modi said, Pained by the tragic mishap in Shahapur, Maharashtra. My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who are injured. NDRF and local administration are working at the site of the mishap, and all possible measures are being taken to ensure proper assistance to those affected.
As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial to analyze the incident from multiple perspectives and consider all possible factors that might have contributed to the girder collapse. It is a tragic reminder of the importance of stringent safety measures in construction projects to safeguard the lives of workers.
The loss of these 18 individuals serves as a somber reflection on the risks encountered by workers who contribute to the development of infrastructure. It underscores the pressing need to prioritize worker safety and implement stringent regulations that prevent such accidents from occurring in the future.
The nation mourns the loss of these lives and extends its support to the affected families as they navigate this difficult time. May this tragedy serve as a catalyst for a comprehensive review of safety protocols across construction sites nationwide, ensuring the creation of a safer working environment for all.
