Two sanitary workers die of suffocation while cleaning sewer in Bahawalnagar

Two sanitary workers lost their lives due to suffocation while cleaning a sewer line in Chishtian, Bahawalnagar, while a third worker was rescued alive, officials confirmed on Saturday.

Two sanitary workers lost their lives due to suffocation while cleaning a sewer line in Chishtian, Bahawalnagar, while a third worker was rescued alive, officials confirmed on Saturday. The tragic incident occurred when the workers entered the sewer line without proper safety equipment, leading to asphyxiation.

According to rescue officials, the municipal committee workers were engaged in cleaning operations when they were overwhelmed by toxic gases. The operation in-charge has been suspended for failing to ensure the provision and use of safety gear, including protective masks and oxygen cylinders, which could have prevented the loss of lives. An investigation into the incident has been launched.

The Chief Officer has appointed the Municipal Officer of Chishtian as the inquiry officer, directing him to submit a preliminary investigation report within two days. The inquiry will examine the circumstances leading to the incident and determine accountability for the failure to implement safety protocols. Reports indicated that the workers were not provided with any safety kits before descending into the sewer line, highlighting a systemic failure in ensuring the safety of sanitation workers.

The incident has drawn attention to the hazardous working conditions faced by sanitary workers across Pakistan, who often carry out dangerous tasks without adequate protective equipment or training. Despite repeated warnings and incidents in the past, safety measures remain inadequate, leading to preventable tragedies. Labor rights activists have called for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and accountability for those responsible for the workers’ safety.

The rescue operation was conducted by Rescue 1122, which managed to save one worker, though the two others succumbed to suffocation. Authorities have expressed regret over the incident and assured that those found responsible for negligence will face consequences. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the urgent need to improve occupational health and safety standards for sanitary workers, whose essential work often goes unrecognized and underprotected. As the investigation proceeds, the focus will be on ensuring that such incidents are not repeated and that workers are provided with the protections they deserve.