Special Correspondent
Pimpri Chinchwad: A tragic incident occurred in Kudulwadi on February 10, when a worker fell to his death while dismantling the roof of a warehouse amid the ongoing demolition drive by the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC). The fatality has raised concerns among local business owners, who attribute the worker’s death to the municipal action.
The deceased, identified as Awadesh Ramprasad Yadav (52), a resident of Kudulwadi originally from Uttar Pradesh, was employed at Shriram Warehouse, owned by Akram Mohammad Ali Chaudhary. As part of the demolition efforts, some shopkeepers were taking measures to remove their own structures with the help of workers to minimize potential damage.
Yadav was removing metal sheets from the roof of Shriram Warehouse, which had a plastic layer on top. While stepping on what appeared to be a sturdy sheet, Yadav unknowingly placed his foot on a plastic sheet covered in dust. The plastic sheet gave way, causing him to fall approximately 20 feet and land head-first. Despite being rushed to the municipal hospital, Yadav was declared dead due to severe head injuries before any treatment could be administered.
Yadav had lived in Kudulwadi with his family for six years, having relocated from his native village after finding steady work and business opportunities in the area. To protect his livelihood from the demolition drive, Yadav attempted to dismantle the roof, which ultimately led to the tragic accident.
Over the past two days, the municipal corporation has demolished nearly 1,500 structures across 250 acres in Kudulwadi, Jadhavwadi, and nearby areas. Authorities have sealed off all roads leading to Kudulwadi, restricting access to residents and outsiders.
The municipal administration justified the demolition, citing reasons such as pollution and frequent fires. However, local business owners and residents have expressed their dissatisfaction, with some blaming the municipal drive for the loss of a life. In response, the PCMC provided a hearse van to transport Yadav’s body back to his village.
This incident highlights the growing concerns surrounding the demolition drive’s impact on small businesses and local workers, who are now facing additional hardships.
