Tree from under-construction site falls on 69-year-old riding bike; son says helmet saved him; alleges safety barriers were put up around area only after incident
The accident spot on 18th Road in Khar West on December 2
My father survived only because he was wearing a helmet. A helmet not only saves lives in road accidents, but can also protect you in unexpected situations — like when a tree fell on my father. Miraculously, the helmet saved him. People should always wear a helmet,” Shivaji Khadke told mid-day. Roasaheb Narsoppa Khadke, 69, was seriously injured after a tree from the site of an under-construction society on 18th Road in Khar West collapsed on him while he was riding his motorcycle.
Roasaheb sustained multiple injuries to his chest, head, and arms due to the incident. The construction contractor, a resident of Kannamwar Nagar in Vikhroli East, is currently admitted to Bhabha Hospital, where he is undergoing treatment.
Roasaheb Khadke recuperating at Bhabha Hospital
Following the incident, the Santacruz police registered an FIR against the unknown construction contractor and site supervisor for negligence, specifically for failing to secure the construction boundary with proper safety barricades.
Speaking with mid-day, Shivaji said, “On December 2, my father was riding his bike to Andheri via 18th Road in Khar West after going to Khar Danda to bring labourers for construction work. That’s when a large tree fell on him from the Evershine Building construction site. My father was wearing a helmet, and that’s the only reason he survived. The helmet cracked in the middle, but it saved his life. Due to severe chest pain, he was unable to speak properly. The people responsible must be punished.”
(From left) The helmet that saved Roasaheb Khadke; his elbow and back injuries. Pics/By Special Arrangement
According to Shivaji, he visited the spot to retrieve his father’s motorcycle after admitting him to hospital, and by then, metal sheets had been installed at the site. “Earlier, there were no safety barriers,” he added.
A police officer said, “We have registered an FIR against the supervisor and contractor of the Evershine Building construction site under BNS Sections 324(4) and 125(A). Investigations are underway.”
December 2
Day the incident occurred
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