Electrician dies after falling from height in Lower Parel; Western Railway says no lapses

Several employees gathered in protest and to pay obeisance to the deceased.

In a freak mishap on Thursday, a 44-year-old electrician working on coach repairs and maintenance at the Lower Parel workshop, died while on duty after he tripped and fell from a height.

While trade unions alleged unsafe working practices led to the accident, Western Railway officials said that there were no lapses and have ordered an internal inquiry in addition to an inquiry by the factory inspector.

The deceased Santosh Gunjal was working on coach repairs and maintenance at the workshop

Western Railway General Manager Alok Kansal visited the accident site at night to take stock of the incident and closely reviewed all the safety arrangements at the workshop. "He also enquired regarding the timely provision of medical assistance and attention. He has directed senior officials to provide all assistance to the family of the employee," a spokesperson said.

WR officials said on January 20, 2022, 44-year-old Santosh Gunjal, while working on coach repairs and maintenance, tripped and fell on an equipment during the course of his duty causing him grievous injury.

Several employees gathered in protest and to pay obeisance to the deceased.

"He was immediately rushed to the nearby Lower Parel dispensary in an ambulance, which is always on the standby in the workshop, for immediate medical attention," an official said.

"For further treatment, he was immediately moved to Western Railway's Jagjivan Ram Hospital within 30 minutes of the mishap. Here, a detailed medical examination was conducted, including X-ray, sonography, CT scan, etc. All the best possible medical attention and treatment were being provided. But, unfortunately, due to internal injuries to his abdomen, Gunjal succumbed to his injuries. The administration has extended all legal benefits to the family of the deceased employee," the official added.

Several employees gathered in protest and for the mourning of the employee but dispersed after discussions.