Sullia: A child had a narrow escape after falling into an uncovered roadside drain during drinking water pipeline installation work at Srirampete, Sullia on Wednesday.
The incident occurred on the roadside opposite Muliya Jewellers, where excavation work was being carried out using an earthmover.
Child falls into uncovered drain
The slabs covering the roadside footpath drain had reportedly been removed to facilitate the ongoing pipeline installation work.
The child was walking along with family members and was watching the construction activity when the child suddenly fell into the open drain.
People present near the spot immediately noticed the incident and rushed to help.
Alert locals quickly pulled the child out of the drain. Fortunately, the child escaped without sustaining any serious injuries.
The incident caused concern among residents and people passing through the area, particularly because the excavation and open drain were located along a public roadside.
Lack of barricades raises safety concerns
Residents said the drain had been left uncovered without adequate safety barricades or other protective measures around the construction area.
With pedestrians continuing to use the roadside, the absence of warning signs or barricading reportedly created a hazardous situation.
The incident has highlighted the risks associated with leaving drains and excavated portions of roads and footpaths open while civic works are underway.
Such locations can pose a particular danger to children, elderly people and pedestrians who may not notice the excavation or uncovered drain in time.
Residents seek precautions during civic works
Following the incident, local residents urged the authorities and contractors responsible for the pipeline project to take proper safety precautions.
They called for open drains and excavated stretches to be secured with barricades and clearly visible warning signs until the work is completed.
Residents also urged officials to ensure that contractors do not leave hazardous portions of public roads or footpaths unattended, particularly in areas with regular pedestrian movement.
The narrow escape has renewed concerns over the need for stricter safety measures during civic infrastructure works.
Timely rescue averts serious mishap
The quick response of local residents helped bring the child out of the drain before the incident could result in more serious consequences.
Although the child was fortunate to escape major injuries, residents said the mishap should serve as a warning to agencies undertaking road, drainage and water supply works.
Proper barricading, warning signs and safe pedestrian access are essential whenever roadsides and footpaths are excavated.
Residents hope the concerned authorities will take immediate steps to secure the worksite and prevent similar incidents in the future.