Mumbai man falls into manhole while using the phone in heavy rain, dies

A man lost his life after falling into an open manhole while allegedly using his mobile phone amid heavy rain in Mumbai, in an incident that has once again raised questions over public safety during the monsoon season.

According to officials, the incident occurred during intense rainfall that left several parts of the city waterlogged. The victim was walking through a flooded stretch of road when he is believed to have stepped onto an uncovered manhole concealed beneath the accumulated rainwater.

Eyewitnesses said the man appeared to be looking at his mobile phone moments before the accident. The combination of poor visibility, waterlogging and the hidden manhole is believed to have contributed to the fatal fall. Rescue teams were alerted immediately and launched a search operation before recovering the victim.

Authorities said the body was later retrieved, and the man was declared dead. Police have registered a case and initiated an investigation to determine how the manhole remained uncovered despite heavy rain alerts and whether there was any negligence on the part of the civic authorities. (hindustantimes.com)

The incident has sparked criticism of civic infrastructure, particularly during the monsoon when waterlogged roads often conceal open drains and manholes. Residents have repeatedly raised concerns over inadequate barricading and poor maintenance of drainage systems, especially in low-lying areas prone to flooding.

Officials from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said an inquiry has been ordered to ascertain whether safety protocols were followed and if the manhole had been left open due to ongoing maintenance work. Action will be taken if any lapse is found, they said.

Mumbai has been witnessing intermittent heavy rainfall since the onset of the southwest monsoon, leading to traffic congestion, waterlogging and disruptions in several parts of the city. Civic agencies have urged residents to avoid venturing into flooded areas and to exercise caution while walking on roads during heavy showers.

Safety experts have also advised pedestrians to avoid distractions such as using mobile phones while navigating waterlogged streets, as submerged hazards like open manholes, damaged pavements and exposed drains may not be visible beneath standing water.

The tragedy has once again highlighted the need for improved urban infrastructure and stricter enforcement of safety measures during the monsoon season. As investigations continue, the incident is likely to renew demands for greater accountability from civic authorities to prevent similar accidents in the future.