A minor girl in Class 3 drowned after falling into an open tank at a mega drinking water project site in Khojaguda village under Narayanpatna police limits in Odisha’s Koraput district.
The tank, reportedly constructed as part of an ongoing water supply infrastructure, had been left uncovered, posing a serious safety hazard. The incident came to light when villagers spotted the girl’s body floating in the tank early Tuesday morning. She had gone missing on Monday evening.
Local fire brigade officials swiftly responded and recovered the body. The site witnessed scenes of shock and mourning as villagers gathered in disbelief.
Police have launched an investigation to ascertain the cause of death and potential lapses in safety standards. Initial reactions point to grave negligence on the part of the contractor handling the water project.
Public outrage continues to grow over the lack of safeguards at the site, with many questioning why such a hazardous tank was left exposed in a residential area. Calls for accountability and stricter safety norms are rising in the wake of this avoidable tragedy.