Tragic Fall Into Septic Tank During Drainage Work
A 27-year-old plumber lost his life and a colleague was left fighting for survival after both individuals tumbled into a septic tank in Pallikaranai on Monday night. The emergency unfolded while the workers were attempting to resolve a drainage blockage at a local residential property.
According to local law enforcement authorities, sewage began overflowing following a blockage in the drainage pipes. The homeowner, Aishwarya, requested assistance from Rajesh, a 39-year-old plumber residing directly across the street. Rajesh subsequently brought along E. Kesavan, aged 27, to help clear the pipes.
Lack of Safety Gear During Inspection
Police reports indicate that while both workers possessed prior experience in cleaning similar systems, they were operating without any safety equipment. While checking the ground floor septic tank, Rajesh inhaled toxic fumes and lost consciousness, falling directly inside the structure.
In an immediate rescue attempt, Kesavan tried to pull his colleague out but was similarly overcome by the hazardous vapors and fell into the tank as well.
Rescue Efforts and Medical Response
Alerted neighbors quickly contacted local police along with Fire and Rescue Services personnel. Emergency responders rushed to the scene and managed to pull both men out of the underground chamber.
Kesavan was pronounced dead upon retrieval, and his remains were transferred to Chromepet Government Hospital to undergo a postmortem examination. Meanwhile, Rajesh received admission at a private medical facility in Pallikaranai, where he remains in critical condition.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities stated they are currently awaiting the final postmortem findings to officially establish whether Kesavan succumbed to asphyxiation from the toxic fumes or suffered fatal trauma from the fall itself.
Sources: The Hindu, The Times of India, The New Indian Express.
