Body of Child Found 18 Hours After Falling into Open Manhole Near Data Darbar
Lahore: The body of a young girl who fell into an open manhole near Data Darbar has been recovered 18 hours after the tragic incident, a day after her mother’s body was found, triggering public outrage across the city.
According to Express News, the heartbreaking incident occurred on Wednesday night near Bhati Gate, close to the shrine of Data Darbar, when a woman and her daughter fell into an uncovered manhole while returning after offering prayers. The mother’s body was recovered earlier, while the child’s body was found today by Rescue 1122 divers from the Saggian area after an extensive search operation.
Deputy Inspector General (Operations) Lahore, Muhammad Faisal Kamran, confirmed the incident and identified the deceased woman as Saadia. He said that as soon as Rescue 1122 received the emergency call, all relevant departments were mobilized. The woman’s body was recovered from the Outfall Road disposal point.
The DIG said a detailed investigation was carried out using Safe City CCTV cameras, which confirmed that all statements given by the victim’s husband were accurate. Footage showed the family arriving on a rickshaw, parking it, visiting Data Darbar, and later encountering the tragic accident on their return. He clarified that the husband was not taken into custody and was only questioned for information.
After 18 hours of continuous efforts, Rescue 1122 divers recovered the child’s body from Saggian. More than 50 rescue personnel participated in the operation, with three teams working nonstop. Authorities said both bodies will be handed over to the family after completion of legal formalities.
Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz took strict notice of the incident and ordered the formation of a high-level inquiry committee, directing it to submit a report within 24 hours. Several officers have also been suspended on charges of negligence and incompetence.
DIG Faisal Kamran said action would be taken strictly in accordance with the wishes of the victims’ family, and anyone found responsible for negligence would face stern punishment.
The incident has once again raised serious questions about uncovered manholes and civic negligence in Lahore.
