A 60-year-old man fell into an open manhole in Mumbai’s Sakinaka area during drainage cleaning work
July 2, 2026: A 60-year-old man, identified as Aslam Sheikh, reportedly fell into an open manhole in Mumbai’s Sakinaka area on Thursday, triggering a major rescue operation. The incident occurred on Khairani Road, where officials said civic workers were carrying out drainage cleaning work. According to initial reports, the manhole had allegedly been left open without proper barricading or warning signs, making it difficult for pedestrians to spot amid heavy monsoon rains.
Emergency responders, including the fire brigade, rushed to the scene and launched a rescue operation. Officials said the victim was trapped inside the 15–20-foot-deep manhole for several hours, with rescue teams using ropes and accessing an adjoining chamber in an effort to reach him safely. His condition was not immediately known as the operation continued.
The incident has raised fresh concerns over safety protocols during civic maintenance work in Mumbai. Residents questioned the absence of adequate barricades and warning measures at the site, while the case has once again brought attention to the recurring issue of open manholes during the monsoon season. Authorities are yet to issue an official statement as rescue efforts continue.