The Fatal Night
The incident transpired around 12:30 AM in Noida's Sector 150 when Yuvraj Mehta, a 27-year-old software engineer working with Dunnhumby India, was on his
way home. His Grand Vitara unexpectedly crashed through a damaged boundary wall, plummeting into a nearly 30-foot-deep, water-filled excavation area designated for a commercial project near ATS Le Grandiose. The absence of proper barricading, reflectors, or warning lights made the pit virtually invisible within the thick fog. Mehta, unable to swim, managed to escape the vehicle, climbing onto its roof as it slowly submerged. His father, a retired SBI director, arrived at the scene quickly after receiving a call and location via WhatsApp from his son, which triggered the emergency response.
Rescue Efforts Fail
Emergency services and police were promptly alerted, but the rescue operations were hampered significantly by the dense fog, extreme cold, and the pit's depth. The initial responders from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) lacked adequate equipment for a rescue of such depth. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was subsequently called from Ghaziabad, losing crucial time. Despite efforts that involved throwing ropes, using a crane, and attempting ladders, the rescuers could not reach Mehta in time. A passerby even jumped into the freezing water to search for nearly half an hour, but was unsuccessful. Sadly, by 1:45 AM, the desperate cries for help had ceased, and Mehta's body was recovered around 4:30 AM, almost four hours after the accident. The challenges highlighted the severity of the situation and the difficulties faced during the rescue.
Negligence Uncovered
Local residents revealed that the excavation site had been open for nearly two years and had seen a similar accident days prior without any corrective measures. The police indicated that the location had become a perilous hazard, especially in the winter due to the dense fog. Following the tragic event, an FIR was filed against MZ Wishtown Planners Pvt Ltd and Lotus Greens Construction Pvt Ltd under sections related to culpable homicide, causing death by negligence, and endangering life. Police have stated they will also involve the Noida Authority to examine and address safety concerns across the area. This scrutiny underscores the need for accountability and a thorough review of safety protocols in construction zones.
A Family's Loss
The accident has left a profound impact on Mehta's family. He resided with his father in Sector 150 and had unfortunately lost his mother two years ago, making him the sole financial provider for the family. The tragedy exposed the critical need for safer construction practices and the devastating consequences of neglecting safety regulations. The Noida techie’s final struggle, marked by cries for help and a thin ray of light in the fog, brought into sharp focus the failure to provide proper protection and ensure quick rescue operations. The whole incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to safety standards and the repercussions of their disregard.
