NMMC Engineer Booked For Negligence After Students Suffer Electric Shock
Two students electrocuted, NMMC engineer suspended and booked
A criminal case has been registered against Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) Executive Engineer Pravin Gade in connection with the electrocution of two college students who suffered severe electric shocks from an electrified, waterlogged stretch beneath the L.P. flyover in Nerul.
The incident occurred on June 30 during heavy rains, when Ujjwala Laxman Wagh (19) and Shubhangi Subhash Balkhande (17) were returning home from college. While crossing the flooded stretch, the two students came into contact with water that had become electrically charged and collapsed after suffering severe electric shocks.
Traffic police personnel and an autorickshaw driver immediately rescued the students from the flooded road and rushed them to D.Y. Patil Hospital in Nerul. They were later shifted to Fortis Hospital in Vashi for advanced treatment. After five days of intensive medical care, both students recovered and were discharged.
The case has been registered under Sections 125(a) and 152(b) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) after a preliminary inquiry by the civic body found prima facie evidence of negligence in duty, lack of supervision, and failure to monitor maintenance work.
The incident triggered strong protests by workers of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), and Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), who staged demonstrations outside the office of the NMMC Commissioner demanding strict action against those responsible. Following the protests, Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde suspended Executive Engineer Pravin Gade pending further inquiry.
Nerul Police subsequently sought a detailed report from the civic body to ascertain responsibility for the incident. Based on the findings submitted by NMMC, the police registered the offence and initiated legal proceedings.
The NMMC has been facing criticism for its handling of the incident, with many questioning the lack of maintenance and supervision in the area. The incident has highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and safety measures in the city, particularly during heavy rainfall.
The registration of the case against the NMMC engineer is a significant step towards ensuring accountability and justice for the victims. The investigation is underway, and further action will be taken in accordance with the evidence.
The incident has also raised concerns about the safety of citizens in Navi Mumbai, particularly during the monsoon season. The authorities have been urged to take necessary measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
In conclusion, the booking of the NMMC engineer is a welcome step towards ensuring accountability and justice for the victims. The incident has highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and safety measures in the city, and the authorities must take necessary measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
