BMC to report on truck mishap in few days

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is now investigating how the lid of an open manhole was removed after a truck overturned while taking a turn in Surya Nagar, Vikhroli on Thursday night. Four people were killed and one seriously injured after the truck fell on them.

Surya Nagar in Vikroli is a busy area and according to official from the Storm Water Drain (SWD) department which carried out the construction work, the manhole cover was removed without their knowledge. The department is carrying out an enquiry and the report is expected in a few days.

However, after the incident, residents alleged of negligence by BMC that failed to take safety measures. Srikant Kawale, chief engineer of SWD said that the report is expected soon, and based on that action will be taken if required. "I cannot comment till the report is out," added Kawale.

Civic activist Anil Galgali said that if precaution is not taken at other places, more accidents are in the offing. He said that the civic body can track each and every work through CCTV cameras installed across the city. "Negligence by BMC cannot be ruled out, and it also exposes the coordination between central agency of BMC and its ward offices," said Galgali, adding the local ward office can ensure safety at work site.

The SWD department has been carrying out multiple repair works across the city. The locals fear that these works may not be completed before monsoon. According to a senior official from the SWD, storm water drain work is going on at 15 places.