A 40-year-old man died in a tragic incident after becoming trapped in a malfunctioning elevator at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The incident reportedly occurred in the presence of his wife and son, raising serious concerns about infrastructure safety in healthcare facilities.
According to reports, the victim, identified as Arup Bandopadhyay, entered the lift with his wife and son within the hospital premises when it suddenly malfunctioned. As the elevator began moving unexpectedly, he became trapped between the lift and the shaft structure while he tried to open the door.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the incident unfolded rapidly, leaving little time for intervention. His family members, who were present at the scene, witnessed the event.
The victim sustained severe crush injuries due to mechanical compression between moving parts of the elevator. Such injuries typically involve:
Extensive soft tissue damage
Fractures and internal trauma
Potential damage to vital organs
In this case, the injuries were reported to be fatal. He was declared dead following the incident.
Preliminary reports suggest that the elevator may have:
Moved while the doors were not fully secured
Failed to stop at the designated floor
Experienced a mechanical or control system failure
Such malfunctions can occur due to issues in safety interlocks, braking systems, or maintenance lapses, though the exact cause is subject to official investigation.
Authorities have initiated an investigation into the incident. According to reports, multiple individuals have been detained for questioning in connection with the case.
Hospital authorities and local administration are expected to examine:
Maintenance records of the lift
Compliance with safety standards
Responsibility of staff and contractors
Hospitals rely heavily on elevators for patient transport, emergency movement, and daily operations. Malfunctions in such systems can pose serious risks, particularly in high-traffic medical environments.
This incident highlights the importance of:
Regular equipment maintenance
Functional safety mechanisms
Periodic inspections and compliance checks
The death of a 40-year-old man at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital reminds the critical need for stringent safety protocols in hospital infrastructure. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause and accountability in the incident.
(Rh)