Rod from Thane-Bhiwandi-Kalyan Metro Line 5 Pierces Man’s Head

A shocking construction accident on the Thane-Bhiwandi-Kalyan Metro Line 5 has raised serious safety concerns after a falling iron rod severely injured a young autorickshaw passenger. The incident, which occurred on August 5, 2025, highlights the urgent need for improved construction site safety, especially in densely populated urban areas.

What Happened?

The incident took place around 2 PM in Bhiwandi. A construction rod, measuring about seven to eight feet in length and 20 mm in diameter, unexpectedly dropped from the metro bridge structure. It pierced through the roof of an autorickshaw and struck Sonu Ali, a resident of Vitthal Nagar, directly in the forehead.

Miraculously, despite the impact and the severity of the injury, Sonu remained conscious at the scene. Bystanders and the autorickshaw driver immediately rushed him to Nobel Hospital, where he continues to receive medical treatment under close supervision.

Immediate Medical Response

Medical professionals at Nobel Hospital acted swiftly to stabilise Sonu. As the rod had directly penetrated his forehead, the injury was classified as life-threatening, requiring urgent trauma care. Thanks to rapid first aid and transport, doctors were able to control the bleeding and initiate necessary interventions.
In critical injury cases, such as this one, time-sensitive emergency treatment is crucial. Neurosurgical evaluation and imaging were likely required to assess internal damage. Currently, Sonu is undergoing continuous monitoring and care.

Who Is Responsible?

Following the incident, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) took immediate action. A total penalty of ₹55 lakh was imposed on those responsible:

Afcons, the civil contractor: fined ₹50 lakh
Systra-CEG-Systra (India), the general consultant, fined ₹5 lakh

The rod that caused the accident was reportedly part of a temporary structure known as a tie rod, installed two months before to support the metro deck slab. Its unexpected failure resulted in the catastrophic fall.

Public Reaction and Investigation

Local members of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) protested by staging a road blockade, demanding that criminal charges be filed against the negligent contractor.
In response, MMRDA conducted an independent safety investigation through the Chief Safety Manager of AICA, a third-party expert group that is currently managing safety for another metro project (Metro Line 2B).

Support for the Victim

MMRDA officials have stated that Afcons will cover all medical expenses and offer additional support to Sonu and his family. Senior safety personnel from both Afcons and Systra also visited the hospital following the incident.

One official emphasised:

“We deeply regret the incident. Public safety and accountability are paramount. Along with penalties, we’re reviewing procedures to prevent future mishaps.”

Conclusion

This accident on the Thane-Bhiwandi-Kalyan Metro Line 5 is a grim reminder of the risks posed by large-scale infrastructure work in high-traffic areas. To avoid such catastrophic events, construction materials and temporary support structures must be evaluated and reinforced.

With millions depending on public transport projects like the Thane-Bhiwandi-Kalyan Metro Line 5, prioritising human safety is not optional; it’s essential.

Source: Inputs from various media Sources

I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.