New Delhi: It was a shocking accident that killed six people. And delivered a scathing blow to Delhi Metro's reputation. It was the pillar number 67, now dubiously called the killer pillar, which gave way, triggering the accident.
But long before that happened, senior DMRC officials were fully aware of the cracks in the pillar. NDTV has documents that show that
- Hairline cracks were first noticed on the cap of pillar 67 on the 1st of April at 8:30 in the night -- the same day the Chief Program Manager inspected the site
Next day, the contractor Gammon wrote a letter to the DMRC, explaining the problem. The extent of the damage was assessed.
Metro chief E Sreedharan suggested pulling down the pillar and re-building it. But he was persuaded only to get it repaired.
Finally a metal strut fixed to the side of the pillar to prop thousands of tonnes of load was recommended. Gammon forwarded the strut design to the DMRC on the 22nd of April.
Twelve days later, the design was approved.
But under the contract provisions Gammon had to outsource the design work of the strut to a firm pre-approved by the DMRC.
It was ARCH consultants, who subsequently changed their name to "SKM " with their offices in Rohini, who were given the task of designing and recommending strengthening of pillar 67. NDTV tried to speak to the officers there but did not make much of headway.
The inquiry is on to determine if the design or material used was responsible. But with pressure to meet deadlines, many believe some key areas may have been overlooked.