Patna: A horrific accident shook Patna late Monday night, claiming the lives of two metro construction workers and injuring at least five others. The incident unfolded near the NIT turn close to Patna University, where a metro tunnel is under construction. Around 10 p.m., a brake failure in a loco machine transporting goods inside the tunnel led to a fatal collision, trapping several workers inside. Tragically, two workers from Odisha lost their lives, and another remains in critical condition at PMCH Hospital.
The Patna District Magistrate confirmed the two fatalities and announced that a high-level committee, headed by ADM M Law and Order, has been formed to investigate the accident. The committee will thoroughly examine safety protocols and adherence to standards at the metro construction site. Authorities assured that compensation will be provided to the families of the deceased, in line with government provisions.
Workers on site have expressed deep anger and frustration, accusing management of negligence and unsafe working conditions. As reports of the accident spread, a large crowd of workers gathered near the site, protesting against the prolonged 12-hour work shifts and lack of adequate supervision. Eyewitnesses stated that the accident occurred when the brake on the loco machine suddenly failed, resulting in the machine spiraling out of control within the narrow tunnel.
Initially, media reports varied on the number of deaths, with some sources suggesting three fatalities, including a TVM operator, a loco operator, and a helper. However, DMRC Public Relations Officer Monisa Dubey confirmed that the accident resulted from a machine malfunction. An official investigation is underway, with results expected to address the workers’ allegations and provide safety assurances for future operations at the Patna metro construction site.
