Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Shocked by Udyan Collapse; Contractor Faces Legal Action
A tragic incident shook the city on Wednesday evening when a portion of the main entrance gate of Siddhartha Udyan collapsed during a powerful windstorm, killing two women and injuring five others, one of them seriously. The Municipal Corporation has announced financial assistance of ₹5 lakh each for the families of the deceased and warned that a case will be filed against the responsible contractor.
The incident occurred between 6:45 pm and 7:30 pm when sudden gusts of wind, reaching speeds of 80 kmph, swept through the city. Amid the chaos, a section of the entrance gate gave way, crushing Swati Amol Khairnar (37) of Shivneri Colony and Rekha Haribhau Gaikwad (65) of Gajanan Nagar, Hudco, to death on the spot.
Sheikh Akil Rahim sustained serious injuries and is currently being treated at Ghati Hospital, while four others escaped with minor injuries.
Immediate Response and Investigation Ordered
Following the collapse, police and municipal officials rushed to the site, and Municipal Commissioner G. Srikanth personally visited the scene. Expressing deep regret over the incident, Srikanth announced that a criminal case will be registered against the contractor responsible for the maintenance of the structure, citing negligence as the cause.
Siddhartha Udyan Closed for a Week
In the wake of the accident, the Municipal Corporation has ordered the closure of Siddhartha Udyan for seven days. A structural audit of the park and associated shopping complex will be conducted by a special inquiry committee, with a broader inspection planned for all BOT (Build-Operate-Transfer) projects in the city.
Shoddy Construction Blamed
Preliminary findings point to poor-quality construction and lack of regular maintenance as the main reasons behind the collapse. The incident has triggered outrage among residents, who are demanding accountability for the loss of two innocent lives. The heavy cement-and-brick structure, officials admitted, became a deadly hazard due to years of neglect.
Chaos in the City During the Storm
What began as a calm day turned into a scene of panic post-6 pm. Within minutes, dark clouds and intense winds swept through the area, toppling hoardings, shop signage, handcarts, and street stalls. Citizens were seen running for cover as the city grappled with the sudden weather event.
Municipal Assurance of Accountability
Commissioner Srikanth assured the public that strict action will follow the investigation, holding every responsible party, including the contractor, to account. The administration aims to prevent such tragedies in the future through thorough audits and structural safety checks citywide.
The city mourns the tragic loss and awaits answers — and justice — as the probe unfolds.