Home / Disasters and Accidents / Worker Suffocates in Mumbai Drain After Toxic Fumes Surge
Worker Suffocates in Mumbai Drain After Toxic Fumes Surge
4 Feb
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.
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.
However, police observations suggest the situation became hazardous unexpectedly. The intensity of the released fumes and water overwhelmed the workers. Rescue efforts by the fire brigade required a temporary halt in the drain's water flow.
This event has reignited concerns about the BMC's reliance on manual labor for dangerous tasks. Critics argue that private contractors often prioritize cost savings over safety, neglecting readily available mechanized solutions like suction trucks. Trade unions emphasize the vulnerability of such workers and call for accountability.
Gazi, who had been working for a contractor for about a month, was from West Bengal. Police are investigating the matter suo motu and may register an offense if negligence is identified, as no formal complaint has been lodged by his family.
