How did the drain cleaner die in Mumbai?

The drain cleaner died from inhaling toxic fumes and being overwhelmed by a sudden surge of water while clearing a blockage in a manhole.

Was anyone else involved in the Mumbai drain incident?

Yes, a co-worker was with him and was rescued by the fire brigade, subsequently receiving hospital treatment.

Why is manual labor in sewers being criticized in Mumbai?

Manual labor in sewers is being criticized due to safety concerns, with arguments that contractors use it to cut costs over safer, mechanized alternatives.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Worker Suffocates in Mumbai Drain After Toxic Fumes Surge

Worker Suffocates in Mumbai Drain After Toxic Fumes Surge

4 Feb

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Summary

Drain cleaner died from toxic fumes and water surge.
Co-worker was rescued and is receiving hospital treatment.
Contractors criticized for using manual labor over machinery.

Worker Suffocates in Mumbai Drain After Toxic Fumes Surge

A fatal incident occurred near Goregaon pumping station in Mumbai when Shamim Razak Gazi, a contracted drain cleaner, lost his life in a manhole. Gazi succumbed to toxic fumes and a sudden influx of water while attempting to clear a blockage approximately 25 feet below ground.

His colleague, Shaheen Noor Islam, was successfully rescued by the Mumbai Fire Brigade and is currently receiving medical attention at a local hospital. The Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) stated that safety measures were in place, including checks on environmental conditions and provision of protective gear.