Bengaluru: Seven people, including two women and a child, lost their lives after a compound wall collapsed near Bowring Hospital on April 29. The victims had taken shelter near the old wall to escape heavy hailstorm, wind and rain when the incident occurred.
The state government has announced a compensation of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased, while the Prime Minister’s Office has declared an additional ₹2 lakh as ex gratia.
Taking serious note of the tragedy, the Karnataka Lokayukta has registered a suo motu case. Lokayukta Justice B. S. Patil visited the site and expressed strong anger over administrative negligence.
He observed that the foundation of the compound wall was weak and questioned the authorities for allowing traders to operate in such a dangerous location despite forecasts of heavy rain. “If the wall collapses within an hour of rainfall, what does it say about the quality of the work?” he asked.
The Lokayukta said the negligence behind the incident would be investigated thoroughly and indicated that action could be taken against both lower-level staff and senior officials. He added that even top अधिकारियों, including the Chief Secretary, may face proceedings if found responsible.
