A Lahore court on Friday approved a four-day physical remand for four officials accused in the Bhatti Gate incident, where a mother and her infant tragically died after falling into an open manhole.
The incident occurred on Wednesday when 24-year-old Sadia and her 10-month-old daughter, Rida Fatima, fell into an uncovered manhole at the Data Darbar expansion site in Lahore. Rescue teams recovered their bodies after a prolonged search.
Police had initially requested a 14-day remand for the accused officials. However, Judge Shafqat Abbas of the Lahore court granted a four-day remand, instructing investigators to complete the investigation and present the suspects again on February 3.
During the hearing, the defense opposed the extended remand. Prosecutors, however, argued that the investigation needed to determine the roles of TEPA officials and negligence by the Water and Sanitation Agency, as well as the civil administration overseeing the construction site.
Authorities have already arrested three individuals named in the FIR, including the project manager, site in-charge, and safety officer. In addition, suspensions and show-cause notices have been issued to other officials linked to the Data Darbar project.
The Lahore court emphasized the importance of a swift and thorough investigation to ensure accountability. Officials noted that lapses in safety measures at the construction site contributed directly to the tragic deaths of the mother and child.
This case has drawn public attention to safety standards at under-construction sites in Lahore, with citizens urging authorities to implement stricter oversight and prevent similar incidents in the future.
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The investigation continues under the supervision of local police, with the court closely monitoring progress. The four-day remand aims to gather all necessary evidence and clarify the responsibilities of the accused officials before further legal proceedings.
