Delhi Jal Board Officials Suspended After Tragic Death of Motorcyclist in Janakpuri Pit
In a distressing incident highlighting grave safety lapses, three officials from the Delhi Jal Board have been suspended following the death of a 25-year-old motorcyclist who fell into a deep excavation pit in West Delhi's Janakpuri area. The victim, identified as Kamal Dhyani, an assistant manager at HDFC Bank's Rohini branch, lost his life on Friday night, prompting swift administrative and legal actions.
Details of the Incident and Immediate Response
The accident occurred when Dhyani was returning home to Kailashpuri in Palam Colony, Southwest Delhi. He allegedly fell into a pit measuring approximately 6 meters in length, 4 meters in width, and around 4.25 meters in depth. This excavation was part of a pipeline rehabilitation project being executed by the Delhi Jal Board. Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) Sharad Bhaskar confirmed that an FIR has been registered against the contractor and concerned DJB officials under Section 105 (culpable homicide) of the BNS at the Janakpuri police station. Strict legal action will be taken against those found guilty, as per the law.
Investigation Findings and Safety Failures
According to a preliminary report from a two-member inquiry committee set up by the DJB, the service road was barricaded and closed due to the ongoing work. However, the investigation revealed that additional safety measures should have been implemented. Initial observations indicate that safety arrangements around the excavation area were not fully compliant with prescribed norms, and movement of two-wheelers was continuing in the vicinity. On grounds of prima facie negligence, the Executive Engineer, Assistant Engineer, and Junior Engineer of the relevant project division have been suspended.
High-Level Inquiry and Government Action
A high-level inquiry committee has been tasked with submitting a detailed report to fix responsibility, examine procedural shortcomings, and recommend corrective measures to prevent such incidents in the future. Delhi Water Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh visited the site and issued a statement expressing deep sorrow. "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," the minister said.
Comprehensive Safety Audit Ordered
In response to the incident, Minister Singh has ordered a comprehensive safety audit of all ongoing sewer, road, and flood-control projects across Delhi. This audit aims to ensure full compliance with barricading norms, warning signage, and other public safety measures. The move underscores the government's commitment to enhancing safety protocols in urban infrastructure projects.
Police Investigation and Family's Ordeal
Providing further details, DCP Sharad Bhaskar explained that the victim's brother approached the Janakpuri police station around 2:45 am, reporting that Kamal had not returned home. Police tracked his mobile phone location to Janakpuri District Park, and a search was conducted by Head Constable Ramkesh along with family members for about 2.5 hours, but to no avail. Around 8 am, a woman informed the police about a body lying inside the 15-foot deep pit, bringing the tragic incident to light. Bhaskar also addressed claims by the family that they did not receive help from multiple police stations, stating, "As of now, we know that the family visited the Janakpuri police station, but if the family says they did not receive help from 6-7 police stations, we will look into it."
This incident has sparked widespread concern over road safety and accountability in public works, with authorities vowing to take stringent measures to avert similar tragedies.
