Cuttack: A labourer died and two others were critically injured after boundary wall of a residential building collapsed during the construction of a drain by the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC).
The wall fell on labourers working at the site.
According to reports, five labourers were engaged in the reconstruction of the drain, which began three days ago. Despite locals’ concerns and warnings, the contractor continued the work without ensuring proper safety measures. The deceased labourer died on the spot, while the two critically injured were rushed to a nearby hospital.
The Cuttack Municipal Corporation has formed a three-member committee to probe the incident and submit a report within a month. The civic body has also gave ex-gratia compensation for the deceased’s family.
“After the incident, we immediately took the person to SCB Medical College and Hospital, where doctors declared him dead. After the post-mortem, we handed over the body to his family members. I also handed over Rs 30,000 as compensation from the District Red Cross and an additional Rs 4,000 for the last rites. We have formed a special team headed by an additional commissioner to investigate the incident. After receiving the inquiry report, I will take action against the officials responsible for the incident,” said the CMC commissioner Anam Patra.
This incident raises questions about the CMC’s efficiency and safety protocols, particularly after a similar incident occurred a few months ago. The residents of Bidanasi region have blamed the CMC for assigning work to contractors with a history of negligence.
