Dhaka Metro authorities to support family of pedestrian killed by falling object: advisor

A five-strong panel has been formed to investigate the fatal incident

The metro rail authorities will take full responsibility for the family of a man who was killed after being hit by a bearing pad that fell from an overhead section of the urban train line, according to Road Transport and Bridges Advisor Fouzul Kabir Khan.

He made the announcement after visiting the site of the accident in Farmgate on Sunday afternoon.

“We will take full responsibility for the victim, meaning the metro rail authorities will do so. Initially, the victim’s family will receive Tk 500,000. In addition, if any family member is able to work, they will be offered a job at the metro rail.”

The victim, Abul Kalam, 36, died on the spot when a bearing pad detached from the structure and fell on him as he was walking along the footpath in front of the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh beneath the Farmgate Metro Station around 12:30pm, according to Mobarak Hossain, chief of Tejgaon Police Station.

Kalam, the son of Jalil Chowkdar from Ishwarkathi village in Shariatpur’s Naria Upazila, was identified shortly after the incident.

Witnesses said the heavy rubber pad also damaged a roadside tea stall.

A five-strong investigation committee has been formed to look into the incident, headed by Abdur Rouf, the former managing director of the metro rail and now secretary of the Bridges Division, said Fouzul.

“The committee has been asked to submit its report within two weeks. It will also review the findings of a previous investigation into a similar incident and identify any lapses.”

Elastomeric bearing pads, made of neoprene or natural rubber, are installed between piers and viaducts of bridges and elevated structures to absorb vibration and support movement.

Fouzul said the government would cover the medical costs of those injured in the incident.

Following the accident, metro rail service was suspended.

The Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL), which operates the metro rail, later said it expected operations between Agargaon and Diabari to resume on Sunday but could not say when service on the Motijheel section would restart.

Fouzul said, “This section cannot be reopened right now. It’s risky. If another accident happens, who will take responsibility?”