madurai high court
On May 17, 2025, a tragic accident occurred on the Meerankulam–Chinthamani Road, when a car travelling from Coimbatore towards Tiruchendur fell into an unprotected roadside open well. Five people, including a child aged about one-and-a-half years, lost their lives by drowning. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Madurai | Silver Rate in Madurai | Bank Holidays in Madurai | Public Holidays in Madurai | Madurai AQI | Weather in Madurai | Petrol Price in Madurai | Diesel Price in Madurai | CNG Price in Madurai | LPG Price in Madurai Stay updated with the latest Madurai news.
A division bench of Justice P Velmurugan and Justice K K Ramakrishnan passed the order while disposing of a public interest litigation filed by SMA Pon Gandhimathinathan of Tuticorin district. The petitioner stated that in recent times several abandoned open wells, unused borewells and quarry pits are lying uncovered and unprotected in various parts of Tuticorin district, particularly along public roads. Such hazardous locations pose a serious threat to the lives and safety of motorists, pedestrians and the general public. The absence of adequate protective walls or safety fencing also exposes cattle and other animals to the risk of accidentally falling into such wells and pits, resulting in avoidable loss of life. The incident highlights the grave consequences of leaving open wells without adequate protective measures, particularly along public roads. Failure to provide permanent safety measures at such hazardous locations exposes the public to the risk of similar accidents. He stated that he had made a representation to the authorities to conduct a comprehensive field survey in the district, identify and prepare a detailed list of abandoned open wells, unused borewells and quarry pits, and provide permanent protective walls or suitable fencing in accordance with the directions issued by the Supreme Court and instructions issued by the state government. However, the authorities failed to take necessary steps. Hence, the petitioner moved court. Download the TOI App.
Madurai: Madras high court on Tuesday directed the state to close abandoned open wells, unused borewells and quarry pits situated along public roads in Tuticorin district in six weeks.