Entire Data Darbar Project Team Suspended After Mother and Child Fall Into Open Manhole
A tragic incident near Bhatti Gate, close to Data Darbar in Lahore, has shaken the city after a mother and her young daughter fell into an open sewer manhole, highlighting serious safety lapses at the site. In response to the accident, the Director General of the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) took strict action, suspending the entire Data Darbar project team, which now includes the Project Director, Deputy Director, Assistant Director, and Sub-Engineer. Initially, only the Project Director and Deputy Director had been suspended, but further review of the incident prompted the extension of disciplinary measures to the full team.
The LDA DG also directed that an immediate criminal case be registered against the contractor responsible for the work. A show-cause notice has been issued to the contractor, with authorities expressing strong displeasure over the negligence that led to the accident. Additionally, the private company executing the project and Nespak’s Resident Engineer have also received show-cause notices. Recommendations have been made for the suspension of the Resident Engineer, along with departmental action and a formal inquiry. Authorities confirmed that the role of the Nespak team in the project will be examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
This alarming incident underscores the critical importance of safety management and oversight in public infrastructure projects. The swift administrative response aims not only to hold those responsible accountable but also to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Citizens and local authorities alike have called for stricter monitoring and implementation of safety protocols to ensure public safety at construction sites.
