BHIWANDI: A tragic accident occurred at the construction site of the Thane-Bhiwandi-Kalyan Metro Line 5 when a long iron rod fell from the metro bridge, piercing the forehead of a passenger in an autorickshaw below. The injured passenger, identified as Sonu Ali (20) from Bhiwandi, is currently undergoing treatment at Nobel Hospital. The incident took place around 2 pm on Tuesday.

The iron rod, measuring seven to eight feet in length and 20 mm in thickness, fell directly onto the moving autorickshaw, penetrating through and injuring the passenger. Despite the severity of the situation, the victim remained conscious.

Upon learning of the accident, the police swiftly transported the injured passenger to the hospital for medical attention. Local workers from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) staged a protest, demanding legal action against the responsible contractor.

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) imposed fines totaling Rs 55 lakh on the construction companies involved, with Afcons facing a Rs 50 lakh penalty and Systra-CEG-Systra (India) fined Rs 5 lakh for supervisory oversights.

An independent inquiry has been initiated to investigate the cause of the incident, and MMRDA officials have assured further actions will be taken based on the findings to enhance safety measures.

Both Afcons and Systra have pledged full support for the victim, covering medical expenses and ensuring accountability for the unfortunate event.