The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has concluded its investigation into the tragic deaths of a family of three in Ambujwadi, Malad, shedding light on a fatal infrastructure oversight.
The incident, which occurred over a month ago, involved the asphyxiation of three individuals from toxic fumes emanating from an underground tank of a public toilet. Initially debated as either a water tank or septic tank scenario, the BMC’s report definitively clarifies the nature of the tank and the circumstances leading to the fatalities. Contrary to earlier speculations, the BMC’s findings reveal that the underground tank in question, initially believed to be a water tank, had been repurposed as a septic tank. The tank, located beneath the public toilet in Ambujwadi, was modified to increase its capacity by breaking a part of the wall separating it from an adjacent water tank that was no longer in use. Additionally, the sludge outlet from the disabled toilet above was directly connected to the converted septic tank, effectively transforming its function.
The tragic incident claimed the lives of Suraj (18) and Vikas (20) on March 21, with their father Ramlagan Chotelal Kewat (45) succumbing to injuries two days later. The ensuing clash of opinions between locals, police, and BMC regarding the tank’s nature underscored the urgency for a comprehensive investigation. Appointed to conduct a technical inquiry, the ward’s executive engineer submitted the report to the deputy municipal commissioner of Zone 4 after delays due to election work. The report, detailing the conversion oversight and its fatal consequences, will be disseminated to relevant authorities, including the municipal commissioner, police commissioner, and human rights organisations, to ensure accountability and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The Ambujwadi tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the critical importance of infrastructure oversight and maintenance. The BMC’s report underscores the need for stringent monitoring and regulatory measures to prevent such incidents, emphasising the imperative of ensuring public safety and well-being in urban environments.
