Two deaths in 3 days: BMC faces heat after schoolboy, 60-year-old man die in separate incidents in Mumbai

Mumbai is grappling with a series of tragic incidents after two men died in separate accidents within a span of three days, raising serious questions about public safety and infrastructure maintenance. The latest fatality occurred on Thursday when a 60-year-old man, identified as Aslam Easaf Shaikh, fell into an uncovered manhole in the Chandivali area amidst heavy monsoon downpours. This incident follows another death just days prior, intensifying public anger and scrutiny directed at the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). Residents and activists are demanding accountability for the apparent lack of safety measures and inadequate upkeep of public spaces, particularly during adverse weather conditions. The uncovered manhole, a known hazard, became a fatal trap during the heavy rainfall, underscoring a critical failure in civic oversight. The BMC faces mounting pressure to address these systemic issues and prevent future tragedies. The deaths of both the schoolboy and the 60-year-old man serve as stark reminders of the urgent need for improved urban planning, regular infrastructure inspection, and prompt repairs to ensure the safety of Mumbaikars. The incidents have sparked widespread concern about the city's preparedness for the monsoon season and the overall quality of its public safety infrastructure.