Car plunges into drain as encroachment leads to near-disaster in northern India
by Aditi VermaA major accident was narrowly avoided in northern India’s Uttar Pradesh when a car fell into a collapsed drain due to illegal encroachments. While onlookers escaped unharmed, the incident highlighted the growing danger of unauthorized structures in the area.
The incident took place at Jajmau Saraiya Market, near Quba Mosque in Kanpur on September 20.
Visuals showed a section of an area built over a drain completely collapsed into the drain below, taking down everything on top of it. A parked car that was standing on the drain also fell in. The scene that followed was filled with tension, as fear spread among those nearby. A crowd quickly gathered, watching in concern as the debris settled into the drain. The air was thick with unease, and people stood by, talking in hushed tones, observing the aftermath of the collapse.
According to reports the large drain collapsed on Friday afternoon, causing a parked car to plunge into it. Fortunately, people standing nearby narrowly escaped injury. The collapse was attributed to illegal encroachments on the drain, where makeshift shops, garages, and huts have been built. Over the years, the local authorities, including the municipal corporation, have made several unsuccessful attempts to remove these encroachments due to strong local opposition.
A resident’s car fell into the debris, and three stray dogs were also trapped beneath the rubble. Had the accident occurred during busier hours, the consequences could have been far more severe. Locals voiced concerns over the increasing risk posed by such encroachments and urged immediate action from the authorities.
Despite repeated complaints from residents, the encroachments remain in place, making such accidents likely to recur. As investigations continue, the focus now shifts to addressing the root cause of the problem and ensuring the safety of residents and commuters in the area.