Open Sewer Claims Life of HDFC Bank Officer in Delhi
A 25-year-old bank official died after falling into an uncovered sewer pit in west Delhi’s Janakpuri, prompting police action, suspensions, and renewed criticism of civic safety failures.
NEW DELHI – A 25-year-old assistant manager with HDFC Bank died after falling into an uncovered sewer pit in west Delhi’s Janakpuri, raising fresh concerns over civic negligence and public safety in the national capital.
The incident occurred late on Thursday in the Kailashpuri area when the man reportedly fell into an open sewer pit that lacked barricades or warning signage. His body was recovered on Friday morning and he was later declared dead at a hospital, police officials said.
Following the incident, Delhi Police registered a First Information Report (FIR) against officials of the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) on charges of negligence. Investigators are examining whether mandatory safety measures were violated at the site.
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In response, the Delhi government suspended three engineers linked to the maintenance of the sewer line and ordered a departmental inquiry into the circumstances leading to the death. Authorities also announced compensation for the victim’s family.
The tragedy comes close on the heels of a similar incident in Noida, where an individual died after falling into an open drain, despite recent government directives mandating barricading, signage, and regular inspections at excavation and sewer sites.
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Opposition leaders criticised the Delhi government and civic agencies, alleging systemic failures and a lack of accountability. They argued that repeated fatalities point to a pattern of neglect rather than isolated lapses, particularly during infrastructure repair and maintenance work.
Civic authorities, meanwhile, reiterated that safety protocols are in place and said action would be taken against those found responsible. The case has once again drawn attention to the risks posed by uncovered drains and sewer pits in urban areas, especially during night hours and low-visibility conditions.
Further investigation is underway.
