Chennai Metro Consruction Tragedy: CMRL To Probe The Cause Of Collapse Of Girders

Two girders collapsed unexpectedly and an investigation will be conducted to ascertain its cause, the Chennai Metro Rail Limited has said and it confirmed the death of a man in the accident.

The girders (I-girders) that had been erected a week ago near the L&T Head office main gate in Manapakkam here collapsed unexpectedly when one of its supporting "A-frames gave way by slipping," a statement issued late last night said.

The CMRL (Chennai Metro Rail Limited) along with its contractors removed the debris on a war footing and investigation will be conducted to ascertain the cause of the collapse.

On Thursday night, the girders fell down on a two-wheeler rider who was crossing that location and he was trapped under the concrete structure and he was initially feared dead. The CMRL statement added: "It's with regret that we confirm one fatality from the incident. A thorough investigation is forthcoming." The CMRL further said it has provided an immediate "ex-gratia compensation" of Rs 5 lakh to the kin of the deceased, who has been identified as 43-year old Ramesh, hailing from Nagercoil in Kanyakumari district.

"In addition, the contractor, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), has extended a compensation of Rs 20 lakh to the family. A enquiry committee has been constituted to investigate the incident," the CMRL said in a post on 'X.'