Nation

Tragedy Strikes: Bangladeshi Worker Dies After Ground Collapse at Raffles Place Construction Site

2025-01-27

Author: Siti

Introduction

SINGAPORE – A tragic incident occurred on January 25th when a 31-year-old Bangladeshi worker lost his life at a construction site in Raffles Place after the ground suddenly collapsed beneath him.

Details of the Incident

The worker, who had been engaged in lifting operations around 2:30 PM, fell into the void created by the collapsing soil. Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. Employed by Nardev Builders, the worker's role was that of a rigger and signalman.

Investigation

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is currently investigating the incident, which took place at the site where the iconic Clifford Centre once stood. The redevelopment of this prime location at 24 Raffles Place is being undertaken by S.L. Properties, a subsidiary of the Singapore Land Group (SingLand). In a statement, a SingLand spokesperson expressed deep sorrow over the incident and pledged to offer support to the bereaved family in this trying time.

Contractor's Clarification

Woh Hup, the main contractor on the project, clarified that the victim was under the supervision of a sub-subcontractor and was involved in the installation of a rebar cage when the ground gave way. This raises serious questions about the safety protocols in place at the site.

Safety Measures

MOM has ordered an immediate halt to all substructure construction work at the site. The ministry emphasized the importance of assessing and reinforcing the ground near excavation sites to prevent further tragedies, especially in light of recent inclement weather that could compromise site safety.

Wider Concerns

This tragic incident is not isolated; just weeks earlier, another worker was killed after being struck in the chest by a concrete pump truck hose at a separate construction site in Tengah. Alarming statistics have emerged, indicating that in the first half of 2024, at least 19 workers lost their lives in work-related accidents, a notable increase from 14 in the same period the previous year. Furthermore, investigations revealed that nine of the fourteen construction sites linked to deaths in the latter half of 2024 lacked adequate safety management systems.

Future Reforms

Authorities have recently implemented stricter measures aimed at improving workplace safety across the construction sector, particularly focusing on integrating safety assessments into the tender evaluation process starting from April.

Conclusion

As the investigation unfolds, industry experts and advocacy groups are calling for urgent reforms to enhance safety at construction sites to protect workers and prevent future tragedies. The community mourns the loss of yet another worker, raising awareness of the critical need for safety reforms in a sector that plays a pivotal role in Singapore's development.