Ensure mishaps don’t occur at construction sites

Deceased 27-year-old Yuvraj Mehta. PIC/X@Narendraprime50

Reports across media cited how a 27-year-old software engineer died after losing control of his car, which plunged into a 20-foot-deep, water-filled pit that was dug for the basement of an under-construction building in Greater Noida near New Delhi. A search operation was launched as the incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, and the body was recovered later in the morning.

An investigation is underway, but initial reports stated that fog and speeding may have led to an accident, following which the car crossed a drain and fell into the pit. Some reports said that locals protested against the Noida authorities for negligence. They claimed that the need for proper barricading and reflectors near the drain was highlighted in the past, but ignored.

There are several takeaways from this. One is the obvious that speeding is dangerous and deadly. Vision is compromised naturally because of the fog, and so it is important to go slower than ever. Even Mumbai drivers should be cautious as winter (if one could call it that in the city) means dark mornings and early sunset, with light fading quickly.

Every construction work or infrastructure project must have bright and by that we mean, bright and blinking signage to ensure people cannot miss it. Use neon and blink signs so that somebody is alerted at once to the sign. Protective barriers have to be installed where needed. This can also apply to work everywhere, on roads, pavements and in buildings. These barriers must be strong and keep out people or vehicles, which means they serve the purpose for which they are erected. At times, we see flimsy sticks, cloth, or even a chair, used as a ‘barrier' and warning sign about work ahead. Secure these places absolutely water-tight to avoid huge tragedies like this one.