The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has taken significant action following the collapse of a parapet wall on February 14, 2025, which resulted in one fatality and several injuries. The incident occurred in Mulund, northeast Mumbai, specifically along LBS Marg, where construction work was ongoing for the Metro 4 project.
Immediate Measures by MMRDA
In response to the tragedy, MMRDA conducted an urgent review on February 15, 2025, leading to the suspension of multiple officials. Satyajit Salve, the executive engineer, was suspended hours after the incident. Two other officials, Abhijeet Bhisikar and Snehal Sawant, also faced immediate suspension, bringing the total number of suspended officials to three.
Departmental Inquiry and Vigilance Cell
Chief engineer Madhukar Kharat has been subjected to a departmental inquiry. The outcomes of these inquiries will determine the potential reinstatement of the suspended staff.
- Executive Engineer: Satyajit Salve – suspended
- Superintending Engineer: Abhijeet Bhisikar – suspended
- Deputy Engineer: Snehal Sawant – suspended
- Chief Engineer: Madhukar Kharat – inquiry pending
The strength of the Special Intensive Inspection Team, originally tasked with ensuring safety along the 32.32 km Metro 4 route, has been reduced to 11 members due to these suspensions. This team is tasked with ongoing site inspections over the next few days to ensure safety measures are implemented.
Consultant Termination and Future Oversight
MMRDA has announced the immediate termination of the general consultant, consisting of DB Engineering & Consulting, Hill International, and Louis Berger. Efforts will begin shortly to appoint a new general consultant for the Metro 4 project.
In a landmark move, MMRDA plans to establish a vigilance cell to enhance oversight of its projects. This cell will conduct surprise inspections and monitor construction sites for any negligence, thus ensuring better accountability in future projects.
Background on the Metro 4 Project
The Metro 4 project, critical to improving transportation in Mumbai, is occasionally troubled by construction issues. The recent incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of stringent safety protocols.
As MMRDA takes these corrective actions, construction work along the Wadala-Ghatkopar-Thane-Kasarvadavali route will remain halted until all safety deficiencies are rectified.
