60-Year-Old Mumbai Man Dies After Falling Into Open Manhole, 4 BMC Officials Suspended

A 60-year-old man, identified as Aslam Sheikh, died after falling into an open manhole on Khairani Road in Mumbai's Sakinaka on Thursday while civic drain maintenance work was underway. Eyewitnesses said contractual workers had removed the manhole cover for maintenance when Sheikh, reportedly talking on his mobile phone, accidentally stepped into the opening. A rescue attempt was launched, but only his umbrella and slippers were initially recovered. After an extensive search, the Mumbai Fire Brigade retrieved his body downstream. Police have registered a case and launched an investigation along with civic authorities. Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for the bereaved family, while the Ward Officer, Assistant Engineer, Sub-Engineer and Junior Engineer were suspended. The BMC Commissioner has also ordered an inquiry into the incident.