3 labourers buried alive at construction site at Shimla

As many as three migrant labourers were buried alive, while four others had a narrow escape, after a temporary retaining wall collapsed at an under-construction building at Mehali, on the outskirts of Shimla town, on Saturday.

As many as three migrant labourers were buried alive, while four others had a narrow escape, after a temporary retaining wall collapsed at an under-construction building at Mehali, on the outskirts of Shimla town, on Saturday.

The victims have been identified as Ajay Sahni, 22; Amit Sahni, 26; and Mithilesh Kumar, 30; all natives of Bihar.

Police said construction at the site had stopped due to the rainfall on Friday, but resumed on Saturday. While the labourers were at work, the retaining wall suddenly collapsed, killing three labourers, while four others managed to escape to safety.

Fire brigade, police and locals rushed to the spot on being informed of the incident. Shimla superintendent of police DW Negi said the bodies were extricated from the debris after much efforts. “A case has been registered against the contractor and investigation is on to ascertain whether proper safety norms were being followed at the construction site,” he added.