Now Reading: Worker dies, another critical in Odisha river weed-clearing mishap
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Worker dies, another critical in Odisha river weed-clearing mishap
A worker died and another is critical after a sudden surge of floodwater swept them away while clearing weeds in the Gobari river near Malua in Kendrapara district. The deceased was identified…
A worker died and another is critical after a sudden surge of floodwater swept them away while clearing weeds in the Gobari river near Malua in Kendrapara district. The deceased was identified as Babuli Sethi of Malua village. The injured worker, Pitambar Sethi, was rescued and shifted to SCB Hospital in Cuttack for advanced treatment.
According to sources, around eight workers were engaged by a contractor appointed by the Drainage Division for the cleaning operation. A relative of the deceased said the workers were pulling weeds using a tractor when the tractor's hook snapped and struck them, causing them to fall into the water and drown. Three people fell in, and one died on the spot. The incident has raised concerns about safety arrangements for workers in cleaning operations during high water flow.
The family has demanded justice and support. The condition of the injured worker remains critical.
Indian Opinion Analysis
This incident highlights recurring safety lapses in government-contracted drainage and river-cleaning works in Odisha. Similar deaths from drowning or asphyxiation have occurred in recent years, often due to inadequate safety gear, no rescue equipment on site, and lack of emergency protocols. The Drainage Division's oversight role and the contractor's responsibility will be scrutinised. The family's demand for compensation falls under existing labour welfare provisions. The next step will be the hospital's update on Pitambar Sethi's condition and any police or labour department inquiry ordered by the district administration.
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Source: odishatv.in
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
