Solapur district orders securing of all wells after fatal accident; officials face action
Two days after a pickup van plunged into a well in Tandulwadi village, Solapur district, killing eight people, the district administration announced on Tuesday that measures are being taken to secure all wells in the district to prevent such tragedies.
District Collector S. Karthikeyan stated that officials have been directed to ensure all wells are protected with walls and barriers. “I have given orders to officials to ensure that all wells in the district are secured and do not pose any threat to citizens. I have told officials to set up protective walls so that such accidents do not occur,” he said.
The collector identified three wells in Tandulwadi village requiring immediate temporary protection, including protective walls, crash barriers, and compound walls. Permanent measures will follow after a complete study of the issue.
Solapur police confirmed that a road contractor has been booked and will be arrested for negligence. An FIR has been filed against the contractor for failing to install protective barriers, signboards, lighting, and speed breakers on the Pandharpur-Mhaswad Road.
Superintendent of Police Atul Kulkarni said, “Police will take action against officials who are responsible for the accident as well. We will not spare anyone. Our investigation is underway.”
A five-member committee has been formed to investigate the incident and fix responsibility. The committee will examine the history of road widening that began in 1986 and determine which officials over the years may be liable.
The well owner, Ramrkishna Kadam, stated that the well was constructed over a century ago and was originally away from the road. However, road widening brought the road edge close to the well. He said he complained in writing to Public Works Department officials in 2017 but no action was taken.
Officials indicated that the contractor, based in Pune, has a history of poor workmanship. A senior official from Pune district collectorate noted that the contractor was not given work in Satara due to his reputation.
The administration has assured that all negligent officials and contractors will face legal consequences. The committee is expected to provide both accountability and safety recommendations.
