Negligence at a government project site in Sukma turns fatal as a child drowns in an exposed trench filled with water.
M/s Lakshmi Agency, the Raipur-based contractor responsible for the project, faces allegations of violating safety protocols under the Nal-Jal Yojana.
Sukma । A four-year-old boy tragically drowned in an unsecured, water-filled trench in Sukma district, Chhattisgarh, prompting police action against M/s Lakshmi Agency, a contractor engaged in the Nal-Jal Yojana. The contractor, identified as Harinarayan Gupta, has been booked under Section 106(1) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) for criminal negligence.
The incident occurred on 5 September 2024 in Balingatong village, Konta, where the Raipur-based firm was carrying out pipeline-laying work under the state’s water supply scheme. Several ditches had been excavated for the project but were allegedly left uncovered, posing serious safety risks to local residents. One of these trenches, filled with stagnant rainwater, claimed the life of Muchaki Hunga, the young son of Muchaki Deva.
According to police sources, M/s Lakshmi Agency failed to implement basic safety precautions, such as erecting barricades or signage around the trenches. “The open ditches were left exposed and unmonitored, creating a hazardous environment that led to this tragedy,” said an official.
On the day of the incident, Muchaki Hunga was playing near his house when he slipped into one of the water-filled trenches. Despite frantic attempts by his family and neighbours to save him, the boy could not be rescued in time. His father, Muchaki Bandi, lodged a formal complaint at the local police station, prompting an investigation into the contractor’s role.
The inquiry revealed glaring lapses in safety protocols at the project site. Investigators have noted that these omissions not only violated standard operating procedures but also endangered the lives of villagers, particularly children.
The Sukma Police have registered an FIR against Harinarayan Gupta and other unidentified individuals involved in the project. The ongoing investigation aims to identify all parties responsible for the negligence. Police have assured strict legal action to ensure accountability and prevent such incidents in the future.
This devastating incident underscores the critical need for stringent safety measures and active monitoring at public project sites, especially in rural areas prone to such risks.
