A 45-year-old woman, Vimal Anil Gaikwad, tragically lost her life after falling into an open drain during heavy rainfall in Andheri late last night. In response, the Mumbai Police have registered an FIR against the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and a contractor, citing negligence.
Gaikwad’s husband, who filed the complaint, expressed his grief, stating, “My wife was the sole breadwinner. I am unwell, and she took care of our family. We have lost everything. I want those responsible to be held accountable.”
Facing allegations of negligence, the BMC has initiated a high-level inquiry, forming a three-member committee led by Deputy Commissioner Devidas Kshirsagar, Chief Fire Officer Ravindra Ambulgekar, and Chief Engineer (Quality) Avinash Tambe. The panel has been directed to submit its findings within three days.
The incident occurred near Gate number 8 of the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation building in Andheri East. Despite efforts by the police and fire brigade personnel, Gaikwad was declared dead at Cooper Hospital.
Heavy rains wreaked havoc in Mumbai yesterday, causing flooding, traffic snarls, and the diversion of 14 inbound flights. Gaikwad’s tragic death highlights the ongoing issue of open manholes in the city, with at least seven similar fatalities reported this year. Additionally, Mumbai has seen a surge in manhole cover thefts, with 791 cases recorded in 2023 alone.