A tragic incident in west Delhi's Naraina Vihar on Thursday claimed the life of a 45-year-old tea-seller after a large branch of a peepal tree fell on him during a pruning operation conducted by the Public Works Department (PWD).
Details of the Tragic Incident
The victim, identified as Mukesh, a native of Bihar who was residing in Naraina village, was declared 'brought dead' at Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital. The incident occurred around 12:30 PM in front of a bank in Naraina Vihar's A block, near the busy Ring Road.
According to a senior police officer, Mukesh was returning after buying milk from a nearby shop when the accident happened. The area is known for heavy vehicular and pedestrian traffic throughout the day. Police were alerted by a caller who reported that a passerby had been injured by a falling tree branch and was being taken to RML Hospital by locals.
Police Investigation and Conflicting Accounts
Upon reaching the spot, police found that the PWD was actively pruning the tree. An amputated branch broke off and fell on Mukesh, leading to his fatal injuries. The Naraina police station has registered a case of negligence.
Authorities are examining whether adequate safety measures were in place at the site. This includes checking for proper barricading, warning signs, and the diversion of pedestrian movement during the hazardous work.
However, the PWD presented a different version in its statement, emphasizing public safety as its top priority. "As per the preliminary report from field staff, the area was fully barricaded and pruning work was being carried out using a hydra machine with all necessary permissions in place for tree cutting," the department stated.
It further claimed that "despite repeated warnings, the pedestrian forcibly entered the restricted zone" where branches were being cut. The PWD has ordered a thorough investigation, promising strict action against any contractor or official found responsible for lapses.
Broader Implications and Safety Protocols
This fatal accident has brought the spotlight back on safety protocols during public works in crowded urban areas. The incident raises serious questions about the implementation of on-ground safety measures during such operations.
It is noteworthy that in September of last year, the PWD issued a new standard operating procedure (SOP). This SOP mandated that all trees along PWD roads must be pruned every six months and that dead trees on central verges should be removed promptly. The tragedy underscores the critical need for rigorous adherence to these safety guidelines during their execution.
Mukesh is survived by his wife and children, who live in Bihar. The case continues as police delve deeper into the circumstances that led to this avoidable loss of life.
