A man tragically died after falling into an open sewer in Rohini, north-west Delhi, just days after the Janakpuri incident. The incident, where the sewer lid was left open, occurred on Monday. Identified as Birju Kumar, a 32-year-old labourer from Bihar’s Samastipur, the man lost his life due to the open sewer, according to officials.
Local residents mentioned that another person was with the victim during the incident but did not inform anyone initially. It was only after a search for the missing man began that the incident was disclosed, prompting the police to be alerted. Allegations of negligence on the part of authorities were raised by locals, with claims that nearby sewers were also left uncovered at the time.
Advocate Tejpal Yadav highlighted that the victim and his friend, both labourers, were working when one fell into the uncovered sewer. Following the accident, sewer covers were promptly installed. Yadav, upon arrival at the scene, observed DDA officials placing sewer lids and private tankers present, raising suspicions. Despite the incident, no department had been officially informed, as revealed when the emergency helpline was contacted.
The deceased victim’s family resided outside Delhi, with plans for him to return to his native village soon. Concerns were raised by residents about the lack of sewer covers in the area, especially considering children often play in the vicinity. This incident once again sheds light on safety lapses around open drains and construction sites in the capital, echoing the recent Janakpuri tragedy involving the death of Kamal Dhyani, an HDFC Bank assistant manager.
