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Temporary Staircase Collapse at Chennai Metro Camp Kills One, Injures Dozens

Police say an overloaded temporary handrail gave way as workers gathered to watch an IPL match, and investigators have opened a criminal case.

Overview

  • A temporary iron ramp and handrail failed at a transit labour camp in Nandambakkam late on Sunday night, sending workers about 15 feet to the ground.
  • One migrant worker, identified as Brinji Manjhi, died after being treated for head injuries and multiple others were hospitalized with most reported stable and a few in critical condition.
  • Reports differ on the number injured, with The News Minute citing 49 victims and police-sourced accounts carried by PTI and ThePrint reporting 35 injured.
  • Emergency responders and fellow workers moved the injured to Government Kalaignar Centenary Super Speciality Hospital in Guindy, Sri Ramachandra Medical Centre in Porur, and Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital.
  • Police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the collapse, raising questions about safety at temporary construction accommodation and the use of provisional metal stairways where large groups gather.