MCG issues notice to contractor after worker seen cleaning sewer without gears
MCG Issues Notice to Contractor Over Unsafe Sewer Cleaning Incident
MCG issues notice to contractor after - The Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) has issued a formal notice to a contractor following a concerning incident in which a sanitation worker was observed cleaning a sewer without protective gear in Ashok Vihar Phase 3. This action underscores the corporation’s commitment to enforcing safety protocols and addressing risks in municipal operations. The notice, released on Wednesday, highlights the breach of safety standards and serves as a warning to ensure compliance with contractual obligations.
Contractor Fined for Negligence in Safety Measures
According to a notice obtained by the Hindustantimes, the contractor was found to have violated safety protocols during an inspection. Workers were seen manually cleaning the sewer without essential equipment such as gas detectors, oxygen cylinders, safety harnesses, and personal protective gear. The MCG emphasized that these lapses in safety procedures could lead to severe consequences, including accidents or fatalities, and held the contractor accountable for their negligence.
"The absence of safety gear represents a critical failure in adhering to safety protocols and contractual obligations. The contractor (A One Enviro Infra LLP) must immediately supply and use all necessary equipment on-site. Any accident caused by this negligence will be the agency's responsibility," the notice stated.
Worker Enters Manhole Without Protective Equipment
The incident occurred when a sanitation worker entered a manhole without proper protective measures, raising concerns among residents and local authorities. Nitu, the owner of the contractor, admitted to being unaware of the worker’s actions. "We will ensure that all workers follow proper procedures to avoid such incidents in the future," she said, acknowledging the need for stricter oversight.
Previous Tragic Event Adds Urgency to Safety Concerns
This latest incident follows a fatal event the prior day when two contractual workers died from toxic gas exposure and drowning while cleaning an MCF sewage treatment plant (STP). The tragedy has intensified pressure on the MCG to implement stricter safety measures and prevent similar occurrences. Authorities are now scrutinizing manual sewer work practices to ensure they align with legal requirements and minimize risks to workers.
Residents Voice Safety Fears Amid Sewer Maintenance Activities
Residents of Ashok Vihar Phase 3 reported unusual activity during the sewer cleaning operation. Approximately three to four sanitation workers were present, but one was seen entering the manhole without protective gear. Vikas Hooda, president of the Residents Welfare Association (RWA), noted that such practices are not uncommon, especially during monsoon season when sewer overflow issues are frequent.
"Our area regularly experiences sewer overflow issues, which intensify during the monsoon season. Although bucket machines are typically used, I noticed workers manually entering the sewer this time," said Hooda. "This highlights a lack of adherence to safety standards, even in high-risk conditions."
Stricter Enforcement and Legal Accountability
In response to the incident, the MCG has announced plans to impose stricter penalties on contractors who fail to meet safety requirements. A senior official stated that the corporation aims to enforce compliance with the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, which mandates the use of mechanized systems and safety equipment to prevent exposure to harmful substances and toxic gases. The notice also serves as a reminder of the legal framework that holds employers responsible for worker safety.
The MCG’s notice emphasizes that such breaches are not just operational oversights but legal violations. By reiterating the importance of safety gear, the corporation is signaling its intent to hold contractors accountable for any incidents caused by their negligence. This step is crucial in ensuring that workers are protected and that the MCG maintains its reputation as a responsible municipal authority.
"We are determined to ensure that all sewer cleaning activities are conducted safely. The contractor must take immediate corrective actions, or face financial penalties and potential termination of their contract," said an MCG official.
The incident has sparked a renewed focus on worker safety in Gurugram. With the MCG’s notice, the corporation is not only addressing the immediate risk but also setting a precedent for future operations. Residents and officials alike are hopeful that these measures will lead to a safer environment for all workers engaged in municipal tasks.