Daijiworld Media Network – Hebri (JD)
Hebri, Jan 9: The ongoing construction work on National Highway 169A has come under severe criticism after the tragic death of Rahul, a resident of Shivapura, in a road accident on December 4. Locals allege that the careless execution of the construction, marked by inadequate safety measures and the absence of proper signboards, directly contributed to the mishap.
Outraged residents have held the national highway engineer and contractor Carl Constructions accountable for the incident. They expressed dissatisfaction with the system and demanded strict action against those responsible.
Speaking on behalf of the victim’s family, Rahul's uncle, Sridhar Shetty, stated, “The absence of proper barricades, signboards, and safety precautions led to the accident. A speeding car hit Rahul’s bike, causing this heart-breaking loss. We demand compensation of Rs 50 lac. If our demands are ignored, we will stage large-scale protests.”
Locals criticized the contractors for installing barricades only after the fatal incident. “If safety measures and warning signs had been put in place earlier, this young life could have been saved,” lamented residents during Rahul's funeral procession through Shivapura.
Social activist Srikant Poojary pointed out repeated violations of safety regulations in ongoing construction projects in the area. He demanded reflective signage and effective safety measures to prevent further mishaps. “If another incident occurs, we will prevent the removal of the body from the site and shut down the highway until fair compensation is provided. This is our warning to contractors,” he said.
Rahul’s family is devastated, as he was the sole breadwinner. His grieving mother now faces the daunting task of supporting the family alone. Locals have appealed to the Panchayat to secure a local job for Rahul’s younger brother to help the family regain stability.
Residents also expressed frustration over delays in the 108 ambulance service, asserting that timely medical intervention could have saved Rahul’s life.
Prominent locals, including Srinivas, Indira, Babu Shetty, Guru Badikila, Sridhar Shetty, and Sheen, have voiced their solidarity with the bereaved family, calling for immediate corrective measures, justice for the victim, and stricter adherence to safety protocols on construction sites.