Accident – Three Workers Die After Entering Septic Tank at Delhi Printing Unit
Accident – Three workers lost their lives after entering a septic tank at a printing factory in Delhi’s Mundka area, where officials believe they were exposed to toxic gases during a cleaning operation. The incident, reported on Saturday morning, has prompted a police investigation while authorities have assured support for the affected families. The victims were identified as Arun, Sandeep, and Chand, all residents of Indrajheel in Sultanpuri.
Cleaning Work Ends in Tragedy
According to Delhi Police, the incident came to light after a PCR call was received at Mundka Police Station on Friday. Officers reached the factory premises of Marwah Printers and found that a contractor, identified as Neeraj, had been assigned the task of cleaning a septic tank inside the industrial unit.
During the operation, Arun, Sandeep, and Chand entered the tank to carry out the cleaning work. Investigators suspect that all three were exposed to poisonous gases inside the confined space, causing them to collapse. Their bodies were later recovered from the septic tank and sent to Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Hospital in Mangolpuri for post-mortem examinations, which will determine the exact cause of death.
Authorities Begin Investigation
Sub-Divisional Magistrate Shiv Singh Meena visited the site shortly after receiving information about the incident. He said officials inspected the factory to understand the sequence of events and assess the circumstances that led to the deaths.
The SDM also met the families of the deceased and assured them that the administration would extend government assistance. According to him, the printing facility had two septic tanks where chemical waste was reportedly being discharged, and the fatal incident occurred inside one of these tanks.
He further stated that police have been instructed to register a First Information Report (FIR) and initiate all necessary legal proceedings to determine responsibility for the incident.
Families Seek Financial Support
Relatives of the deceased have appealed for prompt financial assistance from the government, saying the families have lost their primary earners. They expressed hope that support would help meet household expenses and secure the education and future of the children left behind.
The tragedy has placed several families in an uncertain financial situation, increasing concerns about long-term rehabilitation and compensation.
Family Raises Questions Over Safety Measures
Narendra, the brother of one of the victims, said he was informed that the workers were overcome by poisonous gas while cleaning the septic tank. He claimed that the first worker entered the tank and collapsed after inhaling toxic fumes. A second worker reportedly entered to rescue him but also lost consciousness. The third worker then attempted to save both men and similarly became trapped inside.
Narendra questioned whether adequate safety precautions had been taken before the workers were sent into the septic tank. He alleged that protective equipment had not been provided and suggested that responsibility should be examined during the investigation.
He also spoke about the financial difficulties facing his family, explaining that he is unemployed and now has additional responsibilities following the loss of his brother.
Probe Continues
Police are continuing their investigation to establish the exact sequence of events and determine whether workplace safety regulations were followed. The post-mortem reports and findings of the inquiry are expected to play a key role in identifying any negligence and deciding the next course of legal action.