Four-Year-Old Boy Drowns in Unprotected Jal Jeevan Mission Tank in Assam's Cachar
Boy Drowns in Unprotected Jal Jeevan Mission Tank in Assam

Tragedy Strikes at Unprotected Construction Site in Assam

A young boy lost his life in a heartbreaking accident in Assam's Cachar district on Thursday morning. The incident has sparked outrage among local residents who blame inadequate safety measures at a government construction site.

Details of the Fatal Incident

Four-and-a-half-year-old Wahid Ahmed Barbhuiya drowned after falling into a water-filled tank at an under-construction Jal Jeevan Mission project. The tragedy occurred in Selurpar village under Sonai circle. Wahid was the son of daily wage labourer Bahar Uddin Barbhuiya.

According to family members, Wahid had gone out to play near the Public Health Engineering site with another child. The construction area is located close to their home. While playing, the young boy reportedly slipped and fell into the tank that was filled with water.

The other child immediately ran home to alert the family. Relatives rushed to the spot and managed to pull Wahid out of the water. Despite their efforts, they could not revive the boy.

Local Allegations and Safety Concerns

Residents of the area have raised serious concerns about safety lapses at the construction site. They allege that work on the Jal Jeevan Mission project had been halted midway following government orders. This left the site without proper barricades or safety measures.

Recent rainfall had filled the uncovered tank to the brim, creating a dangerous situation. Locals say this compounded the risk and directly led to the fatal accident. The absence of basic safety precautions has become a focal point of community anger.

Community Response and Official Action

Following the tragedy, local residents expressed strong resentment against the administration. They are demanding two key actions:

  • Compensation for the bereaved family
  • A fair, high-level inquiry into the circumstances that led to the child's death

Police have recovered the body and sent it to Silchar Medical College and Hospital for an autopsy. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

This tragic event highlights the critical importance of safety measures at construction sites, especially those located near residential areas. The community awaits answers and accountability as they mourn the loss of a young life.