Centering collapses, kills a labourer; another rescued

Team Udayavani, Jun 7, 2019, 1:39 PM IST

Yedapadavu: A labourer lost his life after the centering work being done on a well to close it by using concrete collapsed accidentally near Raj factory in Ganjimata on Thursday. The well was getting closed since a new petrol bunk was coming up there.

During the incident, two labourers fell into the well of whom, one was rescued. The deceased labourer is identified as Venkappa Kulal, a resident of Sangabettu Gadipalke near Siddakatte. The rescued labourer is Ashok Shet, a resident of Moodbidri.

Incident synopsis

In order to construct a petrol bunk, the land here at Ganjimata was getting leveled. A 70 feet deep, well sourced, square shaped well was located in the middle of the sight, which was planned to be utilized by closing its top with a concrete slab and accordingly the work was being undertaken.

Including Venkappa and Ashok, 5 labourers were applying the concrete mixture from a vehicle through pipe. On this occasion, the centering failed to bear the load of the concrete mixture being placed on it and collapsed taking down Venkappa and Ashok with it.

Immediately, those in the area screamed for help and the locals rushed to the spot. Information of the incident was shared with Bajpe police and the fire brigade who also rushed to the location. Ashok Shet was rescued by the fire personnel by using ropes. By then, Venkappa had already lost his life. Ashok was provided with necessary treatment post which he returned back to his home.

A case has been registered at Bajpe police station against the land owner, contractor and the work supervisor.

Negligent work suspected

It was decided to make use of the well sourced water as an underground water system by closing it with a concrete slab. It is suspected that during the work, no essential support had been given from within the well which consequently led to the collapse of the structure. Bajpe Police inspector S Parishiva Murthy has assured that legal action will be taken after conducting a complete investigation. The corpse of the deceased has been sent to a hospital in Mangaluru for autopsy.

Maximum compensation urged

The deceased Venkappa belongs to a poor family and hence must be provided with maximum compensation and proper action must be taken against the negligent accused, is the demand being heard amongst the people.