Despite SC notices, two youths die while cleaning sewer in Patiala
Babushahi Bureau
Patiala (Punjab), July 28, 2026: Two youths died after allegedly inhaling toxic gas while cleaning a sewer line in Patiala's Deep Nagar area on Tuesday, days after the Supreme Court issued contempt notices to 15 states, including Punjab, over continuing manual scavenging deaths despite its 2023 directions banning the practice.
According to initial reports, the victims had entered the main sewer line of a house for cleaning work when they were overcome by poisonous gas. Both died at the scene before they could be rescued.
The deceased were reportedly unemployed and had been undertaking private sewer and drain cleaning work to earn a livelihood.
Police and officials from the concerned departments reached the spot and have launched an investigation to ascertain the circumstances leading to the deaths.
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