Boulder falls on JCB at Vasco

The JCB machine which was involved in the double tracking works at Shantinagar.

VASCO

A JCM machine operator was lucky to have escaped unhurt when a huge boulder from a hillock fell on the JCB while it was carrying out double tracking works at Shantinagar-Vasco on Tuesday afternoon.

However, sources said a house had collapsed and several others houses sustained damages on the hillock due to ongoing double tracking work at the bottom of the hill.

Fortunately, the houses had been vacated in advance after Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar had met residents and warned them of the danger during the double tracking works at the foot of the hill.

Railway officials rushed to the site and began assessing the situation and coordinating with local authorities to ensure the safety of residents and workers involved.

Speaking to reporters, Ward Councillor Shraddha Mahale said the houses were located on the edge of the hill.

"Most of these houses were slated to be demolished and the families were informed well in advance over a year ago, since the houses fell directly in the railway property. The Railways have saved many houses in the area by reducing the area of work,” said Mahale.

“The houses had already witnessed cracks and we had informed all people in advance not to reside in the houses, especially during works on the double tracking at the bottom of the hillock. Hence, there was no injury to anyone," said Mahale.

“We had an inspection with Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar yesterday and had advised everyone to remove their belongings and vacate their houses. We also offered to pay half the rent for the people who were staying here on rental basis and advised them to shift immediately. This helped us to ensure no one was hurt during such an incident.”

Stating that the double tracking works will continue for another few months, Mahale has appealed to the Railways also to carry out work while safeguarding the houses and lives of the people.