Under-construction gate at JU falls, two dead

Two contractual labourers, Nirmal Kanti Gayen 38 and Gobinda Jana 32, were killed when an under-construction gate at Jadavpur University fell on them on Tuesday.

Two contractual labourers, Nirmal Kanti Gayen 38 and Gobinda Jana 32, were killed when an under-construction gate at Jadavpur University JU fell on them on Tuesday.

The accident took place around 12.30 pm when some labourers were working at the Gate no 4 of the university. While Gayen and Jana died on the spot, three others 8212; Mintu Naskar, Bholanath Sarkar and Tapan Mondal 8212; were critically injured.

They were admitted in the KPC Medical College and Hospital but later shifted to he M R Bangur Hospital in a critical condition.

Eyewitness said the gate fell when masons were carrying out soil excavation work. They alleged the police arrived late at the accident site and by then locals had begun a rescue operation.

According to the police, preliminary investigation revealed the gate fell because its foundation was not strong. A large contingent of police and Rapid Action Force was deployed outside the campus.

Pro Vice-Chancellor of Jadavpur University Siddharta Dutta described the incident as unfortunate and said the university will bear the medical expense of the injured. The university has lodged an FIR against the firm carrying out the construction work. The authorities have also set up an inquiry committee to look into the incident. It is expected to submit its report within 10 days.

The Faculty of Engineering and Technology Student Union FETSU and Jadavpur University Teachers Association JUTA have, meanwhile, demanded compensation for the deceased and injured workers. They also demanded withdrawal of the construction company engaged in the construction work.

Story continues below this ad

Sunil Kumar Chowdhury, Additional SP of South 24 Parganas, said, 8220;We have initiated an investigation into the incident.8221;