Tragic accident at Patna Metro construction site claims Two lives, injures Eight Workers

Patna, India (Metro Rail Today): A devastating accident occurred at the Patna Metro construction site on the night of 28th October 2024, resulting in the deaths of two workers and injuries to eight others. The incident took place near the exit of the National Institute of Technology (NIT) and the eastern side of Patna Science College, involving a mechanical failure of a loco pickup vehicle that ran over several workers. The accident is being described as the most serious to date at any Patna Metro construction site.

Incident Details

Around 10:00 PM, the loco pickup—a vehicle used for transporting materials on the construction site—experienced a brake failure, rendering it uncontrollable. The vehicle, which was carrying a load, careened into several workers at the site. Tragically, two workers were killed: one died on the spot, while the second succumbed to injuries at a nearby hospital.

Monisha Dubey, Public Relations Officer for Patna Metro, confirmed the tragic incident, stating, “Around 10 PM, due to a mechanical failure, one person died on the spot, while the second person died at a nearby hospital. Further investigation is underway.”

Workers' Concerns and Safety Issues

At the time of the accident, approximately 25 workers were on-site. Several workers have expressed concerns about the lack of supervision during night shifts, citing that supervisors were not present at the site when the accident occurred. Many workers voiced frustration and anger, calling for stricter safety measures and better oversight during night-time operations. This incident has sparked renewed calls for improvements in construction site safety protocols, especially during less monitored shifts.

Workers also highlighted that the toll from the accident could have been much higher had it occurred during the day when the area is more populated. The region near Patna University and NIT is usually crowded, making the timing of the accident crucial in preventing a larger scale tragedy.

District Magistrate and Official Response

Patna District Magistrate, Chandrasekhar, confirmed the incident and provided an update on the victims’ backgrounds. "Two workers, including a pilot, were killed, while another one is critical. Five others are receiving treatment at the Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH)," he said. The victims were identified as workers from Odisha, and as per the standard procedure, their families will be provided ex-gratia compensation.

Local police and emergency services responded to the scene around midnight, and rescue operations were launched to assist the injured and secure the site. The accident occurred at an underground metro site between Patna University and PMCH, an area that is typically busy during the daytime.

Investigation and Safety Measures

An official investigation into the incident has been initiated. A three-member probe committee has been formed, which includes the ADM (Law and Order), labour superintendent, and executive engineer of the Public Health Engineering Department (Mechanical). The committee’s primary focus will be to determine whether safety standards were followed on-site and to assess if any lapses in safety protocols contributed to the tragedy.

The District Magistrate emphasized the importance of adhering to safety standards: "It has been made clear that 100% safety standards must be maintained to prevent any recurrence. This is an unfortunate incident," he said.

Worker Frustration and Calls for Action

Following the accident, workers have voiced their concerns, alleging that it took more than an hour for the information about the incident to reach the authorities. Some workers at the site expressed disbelief over the delay in response, which they say led to further complications in the rescue operation.

This accident has highlighted serious concerns about worker safety on high-risk construction sites, particularly those operating at night or under challenging conditions. Workers have called for better safety oversight, the installation of mechanical safety checks, and the increased presence of supervisors to ensure such incidents do not happen again.

A Devastating Setback for Patna Metro

This incident comes as a devastating setback for the Patna Metro project, which is crucial for improving urban transport in the city. With the project already underway, any accidents or delays have serious consequences on both the workers and the progress of the overall project.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are determined to take swift action to ensure that safety standards are upheld and that the necessary measures are put in place to prevent such accidents in the future. The tragic event has underscored the critical need for stringent safety regulations and effective supervision on metro construction sites to safeguard workers' lives.

The tragic deaths of two workers at the Patna Metro construction site have cast a shadow over the project, highlighting the urgent need for better safety practices and oversight. With an investigation underway, authorities are committed to ensuring that this incident leads to stronger safety measures for future work on the metro and other high-risk construction projects in the city. The families of the victims will be compensated as per the norms, and the workers' calls for improved safety are expected to prompt a reassessment of operational protocols at the site.