Janakpuri Pothole Death Sparks Arrests

DJB staff held as probe widens into safety lapses

February 8, 2026: A tragic accident in Delhi’s Janakpuri claimed the life of a motorcyclist who fell into an open pothole, triggering outrage over civic negligence. Delhi Police have taken Yogesh, an employee of the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), into custody after it emerged that he was informed about the incident by a nearby security guard but failed to immediately alert the authorities. Instead, Yogesh reportedly informed his senior, Rajesh Prajapati, raising serious concerns over delayed response and mishandling of a critical situation.

As the investigation progressed, both Yogesh and Rajesh Prajapati were arrested for their alleged roles in the incident. Police officials stated that preliminary findings point to lapses in communication and failure to follow safety protocols at the construction site. The open pothole, which should have been properly secured or marked, has brought attention to the accountability of engineers, contractors, and supervisory officials responsible for public safety.

Authorities have indicated that the probe may be expanded to include higher-ranking DJB officers and contractors overseeing the work at the site. Officials assured that strict action would be taken against all those found responsible, as public scrutiny intensifies over systemic negligence in Delhi’s public works. The case has reignited debate on the urgent need for stricter safety norms, faster emergency response mechanisms, and clear accountability to prevent such avoidable tragedies in the future.