Toxic Gas Kills Worker Cleaning Noida Sewer

A sanitation worker named Shiva lost his life while cleaning a sewer in Noida's Gheja village on Tuesday. The incident occurred during a maintenance drive by the Noida Authority, within the Phase-2 police station area. Initial reports suggest that Shiva may have succumbed to inhaling toxic gases or due to a lack of oxygen inside the sewer.

Authorities are currently probing the contractor responsible for the work to determine if all required safety protocols were followed. Shiva had entered the sewer to clear a blockage and failed to emerge for some time, leading to a rescue attempt by colleagues and later by the police and fire department. His family has accused the contractor of negligence and plans to file a complaint.

The Noida Authority stated that Shiva was equipped with a safety belt and oxygen mask but got entangled in wires. They have initiated proceedings to file a criminal case against the contractor, Shivji Constructions Co, and are considering blacklisting them. Actions have also been taken against concerned Authority personnel, and assistance has been promised to Shiva's family.

This tragedy echoes similar incidents in Noida, including two worker deaths in July 2023 and another in September 2021, where inadequate safety arrangements were cited. Experts emphasize the extreme hazards of sewer environments, highlighting the necessity of gas testing, ventilation, and protective equipment before any entry.