Ujjain borewell tragedy: CM expresses grief, announces an ex gratia of Rs 4 lakh

Ujjain, April 10 (IANS) A three-year-old boy, Bhagirath, who fell into an open borewell in Jhalaria village under Badnagar tehsil of Ujjain district in Madhya Pradesh, was declared dead on Friday after a prolonged and challenging rescue operation. 

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident and announced financial assistance for the bereaved family.

In a statement, he termed the incident “extremely painful” and extended his condolences.

The Chief Minister also announced an ex gratia of Rs 4 lakh and prayed for strength for the family to cope with the loss.

The incident took place on Thursday when the child was playing near his house and accidentally slipped into an uncovered borewell. The narrow and deep structure made rescue efforts extremely difficult, prompting an immediate and large-scale emergency response.

As soon as information reached authorities, teams from the district administration, police, State Disaster Emergency Response Force (SDERF), and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were rushed to the site.

A multi-agency rescue operation was launched and continued throughout Thursday night and followed on Friday.

Rescue teams initially tried to establish contact with the child and supplied oxygen through pipes.

Cameras were inserted into the borehole to track his position. At the same time, heavy machinery was used to dig a parallel pit in an effort to reach him safely.

The operation faced several challenges, including loose soil, depth issues, and the constant risk of collapse. Rescue workers proceeded with extreme caution, digging carefully and stabilising the surrounding area. Teams worked in shifts for several hours to ensure the rescue operation continued without interruption.

After intense efforts, the rescuers finally managed to reach the child and pull him out. However, he was found unresponsive and was immediately taken for medical examination, where doctors declared him dead.

Authorities have ordered an inquiry into the incident, focusing on negligence related to the uncovered borewell.

Officials have also started a drive to identify and seal such open borewells in the district to prevent similar tragedies.

--IANS

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