Gorakhpur — A tragic incident in Gorakhpur has raised questions about civic negligence after a 10-year-old girl, Afreen, lost her life by falling into an open drain while returning home from a madrasa, as per a report by the Indian Express.
The incident occurred on Monday evening in the Ghosipurwa locality, where drainage work is underway. Due to heavy rainfall, the road was waterlogged, making it difficult to see the uncovered portion of the drain.
Afreen, accompanied by her 12-year-old brother, slipped and fell into the drain. The strong current carried her several metres before locals managed to pull her out. She was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, but doctors declared her dead.
Afreen was the daughter of Anees, a handcart puller. The tragedy has left the family devastated.
A video of locals attempting to rescue the child has gone viral on social media, sparking outrage among residents.
Following the incident, the Gorakhpur Municipal Corporation issued a showcause notice to the contractor responsible for the project and the junior engineer overseeing the work. Gorakhpur Mayor Dr. Manglesh Kumar Srivastava confirmed that strict action will follow after the committee’s inquiry.
Additional Municipal Commissioner Durgesh Mishra said a committee has been formed to investigate the matter, and accountability will be fixed based on its findings.
The administration has announced a compensation of ₹4 lakh to the bereaved family.
This incident has once again highlighted the dangers of poor civic infrastructure and the risks faced by children in flood-prone and underdeveloped areas.
