Manhole Tragedy: CM Maryam removes DC Lahore, orders arrest of 3 officials over negligence

Lahore (Web Desk): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has expressed strong displeasure over the tragic incident in which a mother and daughter fell into an open manhole near Bhatti Gate, resulting in their deaths.

The Punjab CM removed the Deputy Commissioner of Lahore from his position and ordered the arrest of three responsible officials, including the project manager, on charges of criminal negligence.

The high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Minister revealed that the victims, a mother and her daughter, fell into the open manhole while boarding a rickshaw in the dark.

The briefing also disclosed that construction work was ongoing at the site, but there was a severe lack of safety measures at the location. Rescue teams recovered the mother’s body on Wednesday night and the daughter's body on Thursday after a prolonged operation.

Addressing the meeting, CM Maryam Nawaz said, that the incompetence of the administration has destroyed a happy family. "I hold myself accountable for this negligence along with the responsible officials, Maryam said,  emphasising that every life in Punjab is precious and no one will be allowed to neglect their duties.

Following the investigation into the incident, the Chief Minister ordered the immediate removal of Deputy Lahore Deputy Commissioner.

Meanwhile, police arrested the Project Manager Asghar Sindhu, Safety Incharge Daniyal, and Site Incharge Ahmad Nawaz, and registered a case against them.

Maryam Nawaz also condemned the police for imprisoning the husband of the deceased woman at the police station, calling it a “great injustice.” She made it clear that the Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner, LDA, and WASA officials were equally responsible for the incident.

She directed that strict action be taken against all the concerned officials to ensure such horrific incidents do not occur in the future.