In a heartbreaking incident in West Delhi’s Janakpuri, 25-year-old Kamal Dhanyani lost his life after his bike plunged into a massive pothole late at night. Returning home from his job in Rohini, Kamal’s lifeless body and motorcycle were discovered the next morning, Friday, sparking outrage from his grieving family.
Kamal’s brother, Karan, didn’t mince words in an exclusive interview. ‘The administration is fully responsible for this tragedy,’ he stated firmly. ‘There were no warning signs or hoardings at the site. I only learned about my brother’s death that morning when police informed us. They’ve promised support, but nothing can bring him back.’
The accident site, part of ongoing roadwork by the Delhi Jal Board, had been under construction for three months. Minister Ashish Sood, who visited the spot early morning, expressed deep sorrow. ‘This area is heavily impacted by current works. I’ve inspected it multiple times and ensured safety measures were in place,’ he said. An investigation has been ordered, with assurances of standing by the family.
Joining Sood was Minister Prahlad Verma, who arrived with officials. Swift action followed: three Delhi Jal Board engineers—a junior, executive, and assistant—were immediately suspended. Verma detailed the lapses: barricades were placed 100 meters apart on both sides, and a large pit was dug just the previous night in a lane with no traffic.
‘This is an unfortunate mishap,’ Verma acknowledged, announcing compensation for the family and stricter preventive measures. A high-level committee will submit its report within 24 hours, as ordered by the Jal Board. The incident underscores the perils of poorly managed night-time excavations in busy urban areas, raising urgent questions about road safety protocols in Delhi.