The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) and the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project are locked in a public dispute after a tragic incident. The death of a three-year-old boy, who fell into an open manhole, has led to accusations of negligence and a heated exchange of blame between the two entities. SindhNews.com
The KMC’s Inquiry and the Blame Game
An initial KMC report blamed the BRT Red Line for the tragedy, citing “carelessness” among its officials. The report detailed how the BRT construction had damaged the drainage system, making it a “significant contributing factor.” It also mentioned that the open manhole, where the incident occurred near Nipa, was a result of the construction.
Blame Denials from Red Line Management
In response, the Red Line management refuted the KMC’s claims. They insisted that the incident site was far from their construction activity and that they held no responsibility for the sewage infrastructure in the area. In an official letter, they called the KMC’s report a “serious oversight.”
After the Incident
The Sindh Chief Minister, Murad Ali Shah, has suspended five officials for their alleged negligence. The suspended officials include Imran Rajput, Rashid Fayaz, Waqar Ahmed, Amir Ali Shah, and Salman Farsi. “We are investigating the matter and will take strict action,” stated a government official, adding to the ongoing probe.
Conclusion
The tragic incident has exposed the strained relationship between the KMC and the Red Line project management, raising questions about the city’s infrastructure management, accountability, and safety protocols which are now under scrutiny.