Noida Factories Department Takes Strict Action After Fatal Incident
In a decisive move following the tragic deaths of two laborers at an under-construction site in Sector 142, the factories department in Noida has sealed major construction activities at two prominent educational institutions. This action was taken on Tuesday after inspections revealed "extremely serious and life-threatening" safety violations that posed immediate risks to both students and workers.
Critical Safety Lapses at Vidya Jeevan Coaching Centre
According to Ram Bahadur, assistant director of the factories department, the inspection at Vidya Jeevan Coaching Centre in Knowledge Park 1 uncovered alarming conditions. Construction was actively underway across the building while students were studying nearby and moving close to active zones without proper barricading or segregation. No scaffolding was installed, and working platforms lacked essential guardrails and toeboards. Additionally, there was no display of permissible load or worker strength, and workers operating at heights were found without safety nets, full-body harnesses, or lifelines, creating a high risk of falls and accidents.
Similar Violations at GL Bajaj College of Technology and Management
At GL Bajaj College in Knowledge Park 3, the inspection identified non-standard scaffolding and a complete absence of guardrails and fall protection systems. Workers at heights were operating without certified safety belts or harnesses, further endangering their lives. The premises were littered with dust and debris, creating trip hazards, while exposed electrical wires and insufficient fire-fighting equipment added to the dangers. Standard personal protective equipment (PPE) was not provided to workers, highlighting a systemic neglect of basic safety protocols.
Department's Firm Stance and Future Measures
Ram Bahadur emphasized that construction work at these sites will remain halted until a recognized technical institution conducts a comprehensive and impartial safety audit. A detailed compliance report along with safety certification must be submitted before any resumption. "The restriction was imposed to ensure that when work resumes, there is no possibility of any accident or loss of life," he stated. The department plans to continue rigorous inspections across under-construction sites in Noida and Greater Noida to identify and take action against violators, aiming to prevent future tragedies and enforce strict adherence to safety standards.
