Hyderabad: Elderly man swept away in open drain during Miyapur repair works

Hyderabad: A 65-year-old man was swept away in an open drain in the Miyapur area on Wednesday morning. The incident occurred while repair work was being carried out on the drainage system.

The victim, whose name has not been officially released, was reportedly walking near the drain when he lost his footing and fell in. Eyewitnesses said the water flow was strong at the time.

Repair work underway

Local residents told reporters that the drain had been opened for maintenance by the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC). The man was not aware of the open section, which was not properly barricaded.

"He was just passing by and suddenly slipped. We tried to help but the current was too fast," said a shopkeeper who witnessed the incident.

Rescue operation launched

Fire services and disaster response teams were immediately alerted. They have launched a search operation downstream, but as of the latest reports, the man has not been located.

GHMC officials have not yet commented on the incident or whether safety precautions were in place at the site. Calls to the local ward office went unanswered.

The area around the drain has been cordoned off. Residents have expressed anger over the lack of warning signs or barriers.

Previous incidents raise concerns

This is not the first time an open drain has caused a mishap in Hyderabad. In recent years, several similar cases have been reported, especially during monsoon repairs.

Activists have repeatedly demanded stricter safety protocols for maintenance work. They argue that basic measures like barricades and warning signs can prevent such tragedies.

Police have registered a case and are investigating the circumstances of the incident. They are also questioning GHMC workers who were present at the site.

Family waits for news

The man's family has gathered at the spot, waiting for any update. Neighbors described him as a retired government employee who lived alone nearby.

"We are praying he is safe," said a relative, speaking on condition of anonymity. "He often walked that way to buy groceries."

The search will continue through the night. Teams are using nets and grappling hooks to comb the drain channels.

Authorities are expected to release an official statement on Thursday. The GHMC may face scrutiny over whether adequate safety measures were in place during the repair work.