Rakesh Yadav, a 40-year-old worker, has been trapped in a 60-foot-deep trench at the Surya water supply project site in Sasunavghar near Versova Bridge since May 29. Despite continuous efforts, rescuers have been unable to reach him, prompting his distraught wife and children to keep vigil at the site every day, hoping for a miracle. Sushila Yadav, visibly anguished, questions the safety measures that led to her husband’s plight, demanding accountability from authorities.
“He spoke to me the night it happened, saying everything was fine. Hours later, we received the devastating news,” Sushila recounted, her voice choked with emotion. “I need to see him, whether alive or not. We need closure,” said Sushila, who arrived from Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh, upon hearing the news.
The project, led by Larsen & Toubro Ltd. under the MMRDA’s Surya Regional Water Supply Scheme, aims to enhance water access for several municipalities and housing projects in the region. The accident occurred due to a collapse in the trench wall, which witnesses attribute to unsafe working conditions during rainy weather.
Efforts by local authorities and the NDRF, which initially began with joint rescue operations, were hindered by inclement weather, stalling progress until recently. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde intervened after public pressure, visiting the site on June 14 and pledging additional support, including mobilizing defense personnel for the rescue operation.
“The delay is agonizing. Advanced equipment is available; why hasn’t it been used?” Sushila questioned, echoing frustrations shared by her family and community leaders. The tragedy has prompted calls for stricter safety protocols and accountability from construction contractors.
After a brief halt due to rain, the rescue operation resumed with the promise of assistance from defense personnel by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who visited the site on the 17th day of the incident.
“Advanced equipment is available; there should be no delay in rescuing my husband,” pleaded Sushila, visibly distraught over the uncertainty surrounding Rakesh’s condition.
Authorities have assured financial compensation to the family from L&T Ltd., the contractor overseeing the project. Meanwhile, legal proceedings are pending as the police await further developments.
The fate of Rakesh Yadav remains uncertain, but the unwavering support from his family and the public reinforces the demand for accountability and swift action in rescue operations. As efforts persist, the hope for a safe return grows dimmer, urging authorities to expedite their efforts and provide closure for the grieving family.
Reference- https://www.mid-day.com/
