An under-construction portico at the University of Hyderabad collapsed on Thursday night, injuring 11 workers. The incident occurred due to an accidental collision between a boom pump and scaffolding, causing the temporary support structure to fail. Rescue operations, led by the NDRF and local authorities, ensured no workers were trapped, and all injured individuals received medical attention.
Students have since protested, demanding accountability from the administration and compensation for the workers, while the university has initiated an inquiry and safety review.
Rescue Efforts and Immediate Response
The collapse happened around 8:30 PM, with prompt action taken by the university administration. Emergency teams, including the NDRF, police, and fire brigade, were deployed to clear debris and rescue workers. Two injured workers were treated at the University Health Centre, while nine others were hospitalised; all have since been discharged after treatment. CPWD officials attributed the collapse to a boom pump accidentally striking scaffolding during construction.
“Fortunately, no major casualties occurred as workers were equipped with safety gear,” stated CPWD Executive Engineer Manas Kumar Dey. The excavators played a crucial role in removing debris, ensuring that the area was cleared efficiently.
Protests and Accountability Demands
The incident has sparked protests from the University of Hyderabad Students’ Union, which criticised the administration for negligence. They demanded compensation for injured workers, inclusion of university officials in the FIR, and an autonomous inquiry involving students.
Allegations also surfaced that labourers were pressured to remain silent about the incident. The administration has announced plans to form a committee by March 3 to investigate the collapse and conduct a campus-wide safety audit of ongoing construction projects. This move aims to address concerns and ensure that such incidents do not recur in the future.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This unfortunate incident highlights critical gaps in safety standards at construction sites. While it is commendable that rescue efforts were swift and no lives were lost, accountability must be ensured to prevent such occurrences in the future. The Logical Indian urges institutions to prioritise worker welfare and enforce stringent safety measures.
Additionally, fostering an environment where workers feel empowered to report safety concerns without fear of reprisal is crucial. What steps do you think universities should take to ensure safer environments for their workers? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
