Police have registered a case against a contractor following an incident in Lahore’s Baghbanpura area where a young girl fell into an open Manhole during ongoing development work.
According to official sources, the First Information Report (FIR) was lodged at Baghbanpura Police Station. The complaint was submitted by WASA Sub-Engineer Shehzad Hasan after the incident raised concerns about safety measures at the construction site.
The FIR states that development work is currently being carried out in Union Council 134, located in Ali Park Bazaar. A private contractor firm, Muhammad Rashid, Ashraf and Brothers, has been assigned the task of installing sewerage and water supply infrastructure in the area.
Officials said that ensuring the safety of the worksite, including covering every Manhole, was part of the contractor’s responsibilities. However, several manholes reportedly remained uncovered during the project.
According to the complaint, the incident occurred in the streets of Chora Bazaar, where an open Manhole had not been properly secured. A young girl accidentally fell into the drain while passing through the area.
Local residents quickly responded and rescued the child before the situation became more serious. Fortunately, the girl was saved by nearby citizens who acted immediately after the accident.
Authorities allege that the incident resulted from negligence on the part of contractor Suleman, who was responsible for maintaining safety standards at the site. The complaint states that proper precautions were not taken to protect pedestrians and residents from construction-related hazards.
The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding public safety at development projects across urban areas. Residents have repeatedly urged contractors and authorities to ensure that construction sites are properly secured, especially in busy residential and commercial locations.
Following the registration of the FIR, police initiated legal proceedings against the contractor. Investigations are underway to determine the extent of responsibility and whether additional action may be required.
Officials have stressed the importance of following safety regulations during public works projects. They noted that uncovered drains and manholes can pose serious risks, particularly to children and elderly residents.
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The incident has also prompted calls for stricter monitoring of development projects to prevent similar accidents in the future. Authorities are expected to review safety practices in the area while legal proceedings continue against the contractor involved in the case.
