Mumbai man dies after falling into open stormwater drain during civic repair work

A man lost his life after falling into an open stormwater drain during heavy rainfall in Mumbai's Sakinaka area on Thursday, raising fresh concerns over public safety during civic infrastructure work.

The victim, identified as Aslam Ishaq Shaikh, was reportedly walking along Khairani Road when he accidentally stepped into an uncovered drain that had been left open as part of ongoing stormwater maintenance by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). Waterlogging caused by heavy rains is believed to have concealed the open drain, leading to the tragic incident.

Fire brigade personnel, disaster management teams, and police launched an extensive search operation before recovering Shaikh's body.

The incident sparked outrage, with legislators demanding strict action against those responsible for the alleged negligence. In response, the BMC suspended four officials, while civic authorities announced that criminal proceedings would be initiated against the contractor handling the repair work.

Authorities have ordered a detailed investigation to determine whether mandatory safety measures, including barricades and warning signs, were ignored during the repair work. The tragedy has once again highlighted concerns over monsoon preparedness and safety protocols at civic work sites across Mumbai.