New Delhi, Feb 6 (.) A preliminary inspection report into the Janakpuri biker’s death has revealed serious safety lapses at an ongoing sewer Line Rehabilitation Project site, where the biker died after falling into an excavation pit on Thursday night.
Officials said the inspection found an excavation pit of approximately six metres in length, four metres in width and around 4.25 metres in depth, created as part of the project.
“While certain portions of the road were barricaded, initial observations suggest that safety arrangements around the excavation area were not fully in line with prescribed norms, and movement of two-wheelers was continuing in the vicinity, which raised serious safety concerns,” said an official.
It was further noted that detailed safety advisories had already been issued by the Delhi Jal Board on January 24 following a similar incident in Noida, directing all officials and executing agencies to ensure strict barricading, signage and public protection at all work sites.
Officials added that similar instructions had also been circulated by the PWD and the Irrigation & Flood Control Department. The present incident has highlighted gaps in on-ground implementation and monitoring of these safety protocols.
Taking note of the supervisory and enforcement lapses, Delhi Water Minister Parvesh Verma on Friday ordered the immediate suspension of Executive Engineer (EE), Assistant Engineer (AE) and Junior Engineer (JE).
Meanwhile, officials said the agency executing the work has been placed under investigation, and based on the findings, strict action, including blacklisting, will be initiated if violations are established.
Delhi Police have also registered an FIR in connection with the incident and launched an independent probe to examine possible negligence and responsibility under legal provisions.
The Delhi Jal Board has constituted a high-level inquiry committee to fix responsibility, examine procedural shortcomings and recommend corrective measures to prevent recurrence of such incidents.
Delhi Minister Parvesh Verma on Friday visited the accident site in west Delhi’s Janakpuri.
In a statement, the Minister said, “The tragedy has caused deep pain to the affected family, and the government stands firmly with them in this difficult time. Public safety is paramount. Any failure in adhering to established safety standards will be dealt with strictly, both administratively and contractually.”
Verma directed a comprehensive safety audit of all ongoing sewer, road and flood control projects across Delhi to ensure full compliance with barricading norms, warning signage and public safety measures.
. PKJ PRS