Two persons died after three labourers allegedly fell into a 40-foot-deep sewage treatment plant (STP) of the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) at Belagere in east Bengaluru’s Varthur on June 18. One of them was rescued.

The deceased have been identified as Brijesh and Akhilesh. The rescued person is undergoing treatment at a nearby hospital. According to sources, the incident occurred around 6 p.m.

The bodies of the deceased are yet to be retrieved, and efforts are ongoing.

On June 19, BWSSB sources said that the search for the bodies has been hampered by the presence of toxic gases inside the drainage tank and the strong flow of water.

Considering the complexity of the operation, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been deployed at the site. On June 19, they were trying to disperse the toxic gases. Once the oxygenation process is completed, NDRF personnel are likely to enter the tank and continue the search for the bodies.

BWSSB Chairperson N. Manjula visited the spot. She directed officials to intensify the search for the bodies. “A comprehensive inquiry has been ordered into the incident, and strict action will be taken against those found responsible for any negligence,” Ms. Manjula said. 

Ms. Manjula has set up a three-member committee comprising Chief Engineer K.N. Rajeev, Additional Chief Engineer K.S. Renukumar, and Deputy Chief Engineer Vinutha D.S., to probe the circumstances under which the incident occurred. The committee is expected to submit its report by June 20, 12 p.m.

Saidulu Adavath, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), told The Hindu that once the bodies are retrieved, they will summon the officials concerned to understand the safety measures in place at the site.

In a statement, BWSSB stated that their officials remain stationed at the site, overseeing the efforts to search for the bodies. The board is extending all necessary assistance, including medical support and logistical aid.