The incident occurred around 11 am, when two large loudspeakers had been placed on the ground for the area’s Republic Day programme.
Screen grab from CCTV footage shows a man carrying a bundle of rugs accidentally getting entangled in the loudspeaker wiring, causing the speakers to topple. The falling equipment struck four-year-old Angel Solkar, who was running in the same direction. She was rushed by local youths to a nearby hospital, which allegedly refused to admit her, and was later declared dead at Godrej Memorial Hospital. Pics/By Special Arrangement
A Republic Day celebration in Vikroli's Tagore Nagar, also called Ambedkar Nagar, turned fatal when a fallen loudspeaker killed a four-year-old.
The incident occurred around 11 am, when two large loudspeakers had been placed on the ground for the area’s Republic Day programme.
According to CCTV footage, a man carrying a large bundle of rugs accidentally entangled the load in the speaker wiring, causing the equipment to topple. The child, Angel Solkar, who was running nearby, was struck. Some residents alleged that timely medical care might have saved her life.
This is a shocking tragedy, more so because of the negligence. We see loudspeakers at several events, most of them high above, tied to bamboo in shamianas/pandals erected for a particular occasion. These must be properly secured. Even if placed on low/ground level, they should not topple over with a touch or inadvertent push.
Going beyond loudspeakers, organisers must ensure that the space is completely safe. From a strong structure that is the shamiana itself, which must be erected after all permissions and due care, to the stage, we have read reports of stages collapsing during performances; all must be tried and tested and watertight.
Occasions or events see several installations within a space dedicated to celebrations. There may be photos, wiring for technical aspects, screens... whatever is needed. We need fire exits and clear announcements about what to do in case of emergencies. A clear announcement system. All hangings or installations should be in no danger of collapse, and guests/visitors/even those in the area for whatever reason should be completely safe. Let permissions be granted only after strict on-site visits by officials. Even if posted on stands, paraphernalia must be fixed so that it does not simply topple over.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
