In a tragic accident in Mumbai’s Ghatkopar locality on Sunday, a 28-year-old man saved an eight-year-old girl who had slipped into a street drain but drowned while trying to climb out himself. The man, Shahzad Shaikh, a labourer who takes daily wages, showed exemplary bravery and selflessness in saving the child but went on to lose his life in the attempt.
Girl Child Fell While Retrieving Ball
As per the officials at the Pantnagar Police Station, the accident took place while the little girl was trying to pick up a ball which had fallen into the open drain. In the process, she fell into the water channel by mistake and was unable to climb back out because of its depth and slippery nature.
When she cried for assistance, Shahzad Shaikh was just walking by. Immediately, he dove into the drain to save her. Eyewitnesses report that Shaikh was able to reach the child in a matter of seconds and safely handed her over to another witness hovering around the drain opening.
Rescuer Could Not Escape
But as soon as the girl was out, Shaikh could not climb out of the drain by himself. The water-filled, narrow, and slippery space of the drain restricted him from moving freely. Within a few minutes, he allegedly got stuck and drowned before anyone could reach him to rescue him.
Very soon, a group of firefighters and local police personnel reached the spot. Rescuers took Shaikh to a nearby hospital, but the doctors refused to treat him as he had already died.
Police Start Probe
The authorities have filed an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in relation to the incident. A formal probe is ongoing to determine the exact circumstances and ascertain whether negligence on the part of civic infrastructure was the cause of the tragedy.
Shaikh’s gallant act has evoked a mix of sadness and respect throughout the city.
