Bowring hospital wall collapse: CM Siddaramaiah orders engineer suspension, cracks down on negligence

Bengaluru: In the wake of the tragic wall collapse near Bowring Hospital that claimed seven lives, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has ordered the immediate suspension of the concerned executive engineer, holding officials accountable for negligence.

The Chief Minister convened a high-level meeting at Vidhana Soudha to review the incident and the broader rain-related damage across the city. During the meeting, Siddaramaiah expressed strong displeasure over the handling of the situation, questioning why soil had been dumped near the wall despite known risks to its stability. He directed authorities to take strict action against those responsible.

He also pulled up the hospital administration, asking why precautionary measures were not taken despite visible warning signs. The Chief Minister has ordered that a notice be issued to the Bowring Hospital authorities in this regard.

The wall collapse occurred amid heavy rains that lashed Bengaluru, causing widespread damage. Over 250 trees were uprooted across the city, highlighting the lack of preparedness ahead of the monsoon season. The Chief Minister instructed officials from all five BBMP zones to undertake immediate precautionary measures, including trimming dangerous tree branches, clearing stormwater drains, and preventing flooding in low-lying areas.

He further directed authorities to ensure that underpasses remain free of waterlogging and to barricade them when necessary to prevent public access during heavy rains. Debris, fallen branches, and waste on roads must be cleared without delay, he added.

Speaking after the meeting, MLA Rizwan Arshad said that the Chief Minister has issued strict instructions to civic officials to strengthen disaster management efforts. He also confirmed that action will be taken against all those found responsible once the investigation report is submitted. A comprehensive audit of dilapidated walls and structures across the city has also been ordered.

Earlier, Siddaramaiah visited the accident site and later met the injured at the hospital, assuring them of free treatment. He also announced a compensation of ₹5 lakh each to the families of the deceased.