17 Workers Killed in Samruddhi Expressway Construction Mishap
In a heart-wrenching incident, at least 17 workers lost their lives during the construction of the third phase of the Samruddhi Expressway in Maharashtra’s Thane district. The catastrophe occurred on a Monday night when a girder machine tragically fell on them, causing immense grief and sorrow to their families and loved ones. The machine involved in this unfortunate event was a special-purpose mobile gantry crane, commonly used in bridge construction projects.
The grim accident took place in the Shahapur tehsil of Thane district, where the girder machine fell on the slab of a bridge, instantly claiming the lives of 17 workers. As per reports from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), there is a fear that at least five more workers might still be trapped under the collapsed structure, adding to the distressing situation.
The machine responsible for this tragedy, as reported by the news agency PTI, is a special-purpose mobile gantry crane. This powerful piece of equipment plays a vital role in the installation of precast box girders for highway and high-speed rail bridge construction projects. However, the unfortunate incident has highlighted the need for utmost caution and safety measures in such high-risk construction operations.
Upon receiving the distress call, the police, fire brigade personnel, and local agencies swiftly initiated rescue operations. Despite the immediate response, the death toll is likely to rise, according to PTI reports citing an official source. The rescue teams, including the NDRF, are working relentlessly to provide assistance and relief to those affected by this calamity.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep condolences to the families of the deceased workers. He expressed his pain and grief over the tragedy that unfolded in Shahapur, Maharashtra. The Prime Minister assured that the NDRF and local administration are actively involved in providing support to those affected, leaving no stone unturned to ensure proper assistance during these difficult times.
“My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who are injured. NDRF and local administration are working at the site of the mishap, and all possible measures are being taken to ensure proper assistance to those affected,” Modi said.
In a gesture of support, the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) has announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased worker. Additionally, the injured will receive Rs. 50,000 as financial assistance to aid their recovery and healing process.
