THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
A 32-year-old man from Oxel, Siolim, narrowly escaped death Wednesday evening after falling into a deep, unbarricaded trench near Marna, Siolim. Around 8 pm, while riding a scooter towards Mapusa, he plunged into the 10-foot-deep excavation site dug for a water pipeline repair. The trench lacked warning signs, barricades, and lighting, creating a dangerous hazard for commuters. The victim sustained a serious ear injury and minor head and hand injuries. Alert locals rescued him and called a 108 ambulance, which took him to Siolim PHC. Residents condemned the negligence of the agencies handling the repair, citing poor safety measures and coordination between government departments. A Public Works Department source confirmed the repair work but declined to comment on safety lapses, stating they are reviewing contractor compliance with protocols.
