Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Feb 3: A routine drain-cleaning operation turned fatal early Tuesday morning after two labourers suffocated inside a deep drainage line near Mega Mall in Goregaon West. One of the workers died, while the other sustained minor injuries.

The victims were identified as Salil Razak Gazi (27) and Sahil Noor Islam (30), both employed by a private contractor. The incident was reported to the Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB) control room at around 3.40 am.

Officials said the workers were cleaning a drain along Link Road near Gate No. 2 of Mega Mall when the incident occurred. The drain, measuring approximately 25 to 30 feet in depth and around six feet in width, is believed to have contained toxic gases or had dangerously low oxygen levels. While working inside the confined space, both men suddenly began experiencing severe breathing difficulties.

Before emergency responders arrived, staff from the private company managed to pull out one of the workers using a rope. Fire brigade personnel later conducted a rescue operation to retrieve the second labourer from the drain.

Both men were rushed to Trauma Care Hospital for medical attention. Doctors confirmed that Sahil Noor Islam suffered minor injuries and was discharged after treatment. However, Salil Razak Gazi was declared brought dead on arrival.

The rescue and emergency response involved multiple agencies, including the Mumbai Fire Brigade, local police, the 108 ambulance service, and civic ward officials. Further investigation into safety measures and working conditions at the site is underway.