A partial bridge collapse at Thathar in Bantalab, Jammu, has resulted in the deaths of three construction labourers. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, has prompted calls for a thorough investigation into safety protocols at infrastructure project sites.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, Additional General Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference and a former minister, visited the site and expressed profound shock and grief over the fatalities. He described the tragedy as deeply distressing, emphasizing the inherent risks faced by workers engaged in construction activities.
Sadhotra extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved families and offered prayers for their strength to bear the immense loss. He also acknowledged the swift response and coordinated efforts of various rescue agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force, Civil Defence personnel, and the district civil and police administration. Their timely intervention facilitated the evacuation of one survivor from the debris.
Raising serious concerns regarding potential safety lapses, Sadhotra underscored the imperative of strict adherence to construction safety norms. He characterized the incident as a critical wake-up call for authorities and implementing agencies to enforce safety protocols rigorously, asserting that the protection of human life must be the paramount priority. He further advocated for the regular monitoring and inspection of all ongoing infrastructure projects to pre-empt such untoward incidents.
The former minister welcomed the announcement by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah regarding a time-bound inquiry into the collapse. Sadhotra expressed his hope that responsibility would be promptly fixed and decisive action taken against any individuals found to be negligent. He emphasized that accountability is essential for ensuring justice and preventing the recurrence of similar tragedies in the future.
Sadhotra also highlighted the plight of the affected families, demanding adequate compensation and ex gratia relief for the next of kin of the deceased labourers. He called for comprehensive medical care for the injured labourer and conveyed wishes for their speedy recovery.
Reiterating his commitment to labour welfare, Sadhotra stressed that workers involved in development projects must be guaranteed safe working conditions and afforded dignity in their livelihoods. He urged all stakeholders to act responsibly and collaboratively to prevent further loss of life and ensure the well-being of the workforce engaged in the region’s development.
The bridge collapse occurred in the Bantalab area, which falls under the Jammu North Assembly constituency, a region experiencing ongoing development activities. The incident has cast a shadow over the local administration’s oversight of construction projects and raised questions about the enforcement of safety standards.
Local residents at the site expressed their distress and called for improved safety measures to be implemented across all public and private construction projects in the region. They emphasized the need for greater vigilance from construction companies and government bodies to ensure the safety of labourers and the public.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
