Victim Dies from Suffocation After Motorcycle Traps Him in Unguarded Sewer Excavation in West Delhi: Postmortem Report
A 25-year-old man, Kamal Dhyani, lost his life after he fell into an uncovered pit dug for sewer work by the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) in West Delhi’s Janakpuri area. The tragic incident occurred in the early hours while he was returning home after finishing his night shift.
According to the initial postmortem report, Kamal died due to suffocation. Investigators found that soil had blocked his mouth and nose after he fell into the deep pit. His heavy motorcycle also fell on top of him, pressing against his chest and making it impossible for him to breathe. Doctors also found burn marks on his thigh, which were later confirmed to have occurred after his death due to contact with the motorcycle’s silencer.
Pit Was Deep and Unprotected
Reports suggest that the pit was around 15 feet deep and had been left open without proper safety measures. There were no barricades, warning signs, reflectors, or adequate lighting at the site. This alleged negligence has raised serious questions about safety standards followed during public utility work in the area.
Family members said they searched for Kamal throughout the night when he did not return home. They reportedly visited several police stations before learning the next morning that his body had been found inside the pit.
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Police Action and Legal Charges
Delhi Police registered a case at Janakpuri Police Station under Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which deals with culpable homicide. The case names contractors and officials responsible for the work.
The police have issued non-bailable warrants against two contractors, Himanshu Gupta and Kavish Gupta, in connection with the incident. A sub-contractor, Rajesh Kumar Prajapati, was arrested for allegedly failing to inform authorities about the accident even after being informed. His police custody was later extended by the court.
A labourer present at the site, identified as Yogesh, was also arrested and sent to judicial custody for allegedly not reporting the fall and misleading the victim’s family when they came looking for him.
Investigation Into Safety Lapses
Authorities are now investigating whether proper safety guidelines were ignored and whether any attempt was made to cover up lapses after the incident. The tragedy has sparked public outrage and renewed concerns over the safety of open construction sites in the city.
The case continues to unfold as police question those involved and examine the responsibilities of contractors and officials linked to the project.
