TV
At least three persons, including an engineer and 2 labourers, died while two others were injured after a concrete slab fell on them during construction work for a bridge over the Kathajodi River in Cuttack on Saturday. The condition of the two injured is said to be critical.
As per initial reports, the incident occurred near Khannagar when a ready-made slab, which was being carried by a crane, collapsed.
However, the exact reason behind the mishap is unclear. Similarly, the exact number of injured may increase as there is no information on whether any other labourers are trapped under the concrete slab or not.
All five injured were immediately rescued and rushed to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. Later, the doctors at SCB declared two labourers as brought dead. Another labourer succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment at the hospital.
Police and other rescue teams are on the spot, and further investigation is underway to ascertain how the mishap occurred.
Sources said that the bridge construction work was underway after the inauguration of the new bus terminal at Khannagar.
"As per the preliminary investigation, the accident occurred due to the breakdown of a crane while carrying a slab. More information about the incident could be divulged after further investigation. Preliminary investigation has revealed that the victims are from Odisha and West Bengal," said Cuttack DCP Rishikesh Khilari.
"It's a very tragic incident, and it occurred due to negligence in duty. A high-level investigation into the incident should be launched by the State government, and stern actions should be taken against the erring persons. Had proper safety measures been taken, this kind of unfortunate accident would not have happened. Proper compensation should be provided to the victims. There should have been proper supervision of the work," said CMC Mayor Subash Singh.
As per reports, engineers and authorities of the concerned company were not present during the incident. Questions have been raised over the adherence to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) during the operation.
Local residents have expressed their dissatisfaction over the development.
"Around 50-60 people were working at the spot when the accident occurred. Fortunately, only five to six people were the victims. The work has been in progress for the last two years. However, we hardly see any authorities at the place. No safety measures are taken during the work," rued a local resident.
CM Orders Probe, Announces Compensation
Chief Minister Mohan Majhi has ordered an investigation into the incident. The CM also announced compensation of Rs. 5 lakh from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund for the next of kin of the deceased. He extended his condolences to the bereaved families of the deceased and announced free treatment to the injured.
