Bengaluru Metro Work Claims Life, Auto Driver Crushed to Death as Viaduct Falls On Vehicle

A late-night metro construction mishap turned fatal in Bengaluru when a massive viaduct being transported by truck fell and crushed an auto parked by the roadside. The accident claimed the life of the 35-year-old auto driver, Qasim Saab, and has sparked outrage over alleged negligence by metro authorities.

The incident occurred around midnight near Kogilu Cross in Yelahanka. Eyewitnesses say the truck, carrying construction material for the Namma Metro, lost balance, causing the viaduct to topple onto the stationary auto. Shockingly, the truck driver fled the scene, abandoning the vehicle and leaving behind chaos and devastation.

Local residents rushed to help, but the sheer size of the viaduct made it impossible to rescue Qasim without heavy machinery. Though police arrived quickly, a crane was delayed, further frustrating the crowd. By 2 AM, the crane finally reached the site and Qasim's body was recovered from beneath the debris.

Witnesses allege that the lorry had made a sharp turn, which may have caused the viaduct to fall. At the time of the incident, Qasim was reportedly waiting in his auto after dropping off a passenger, likely to collect payment.

The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) said,"BMRCL regrets to report a fatal accident that cost the life of an auto driver, who was killed in an unfortunate incident around 12 a.m. last night.''

The statement added that the truck carrying the girder had to brake abruptly to avoid a vehicle that suddenly entered its lane, causing the girder to fall onto the autorickshaw. "Emergency services were immediately deployed, and the driver's body was recovered with the help of cranes. Unfortunately, he was declared dead by medical personnel," it said.

BMRCL has assured that the deceased's family will receive compensation in accordance with established protocol.

Angry locals have blamed metro officials for failing to follow basic safety protocols during construction activities. Some even resorted to stone-pelting in protest of what they say was "avoidable negligence."

A case has been registered at the Yelahanka Traffic Police Station, and efforts are underway to track down the absconding driver.