New Delhi: A day after a traffic signal pole came crashing down on vehicles on Minto Road, leaving two people injured, Delhi Police Wednesday registered a case.
The case was registered on the complaint of autorickshaw driver Budhpal, who told police that around 9 pm Tuesday, near a mosque in K-Block on the Outer Circle in Connaught Place, the traffic signal pole collapsed onto his vehicle and a scooter. An FIR was registered at Connaught Place police station against unknown persons under BNS Sections 125(a) and 125(b), which deal with rash or negligent acts endangering life or personal safety.
Sources said the agency responsible for maintaining the signal pole was alerted about the need for repairs about five days before the mishap. Traffic police sources said officials also visited the spot and began an inquiry. Sources said a show-cause notice is likely to be issued to the agency responsible for maintaining the pole. The tender documents also place the responsibility for repairs on the agency,” a source said. Auto driver Budhpal told police that he had picked up a passenger from Hanuman Mandir and was taking him to Kake Da Dhaba when he stopped at the red light near the Minto Road bridge.
Police suspect seepage may have contributed to the collapse. “Routine letters are sent to the agencies, and monthly reports are also collected. The passenger in his auto and the scooty rider, who were injured, were taken to nearby hospitals in PCR vans.
The other injured, 73-year-old Sunil Gilani, was admitted to a private hospital with pain in his right forearm and lower back.
Budhpal told TOI, “I come from a decent family and ride my auto on rent. The auto was destroyed,” he said. His family told TOI that he is undergoing surgery and has suffered multiple fractures.
The crashing pole injured Budhpal’s arms and spine. “It was shocking. He also had difficulty walking. Doctors termed his injuries grievous.