The Delhi government is set to take action against the contractor responsible for an incident in Harsh Vihar where a 51-year-old auto-rickshaw driver tragically lost his life after his vehicle fell into a rainwater-filled ditch near an under-construction flyover in east Delhi. The government has acknowledged that the contractor is liable for maintaining the roads in accordance with safety standards and will investigate any negligence on their part.
In response to the incident, the Delhi government is implementing upgraded safety norms to strengthen state roads and prevent similar accidents. These measures will be given priority to ensure public safety. The police received a distress call at around 3:30 p.m. on Friday reporting that a person had drowned in a ditch filled with rainwater in the Harsh Vihar area. The ditch had been dug up near an under-construction flyover and had become filled with rainwater.
The family of the deceased, identified as Ajit Sharma, is urging the authorities to take necessary measures to ensure public safety. They are also seeking justice and punishment for those responsible for the negligence that led to this tragic incident. The family is requesting that the ditch be covered or at least warning signs be installed to prevent further mishaps.
A case has been filed under Section 304A (causing death by negligence) of the Indian Penal Code, in which the investigation will focus on determining if any parties involved, including the Public Works Department (PWD), were negligent. The PWD had excavated the ditch as part of an ongoing flyover project to construct a pillar.
This incident calls attention to the need for strict adherence to safety standards and proper oversight during construction projects. The Delhi government has vowed to take appropriate action against the contractor if any laxity is found. In addition, the PWD Minister has directed that the officials found guilty in this incident be punished to the fullest extent.
In the interest of public safety, it is crucial that such incidents are thoroughly investigated, and corrective measures are taken to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The Delhi government’s commitment to enforcing upgraded safety norms shows their dedication to ensuring the well-being of citizens and maintaining the integrity of construction projects.
The incident underscores the importance of holding accountable those responsible for maintaining safety standards during construction work. The focus should be on preventing accidents and upholding public safety at all times. Through careful investigation and strict action, the authorities can learn from this tragic incident and work towards preventing such incidents in the future.
