CM Maryam Nawaz transfers Lodhran DC after child dies in open manhole

BAHAWALPUR (Dunya News) - A seven-year-old boy lost his life after falling into an uncovered manhole in Dhanote town near Lodhran on Saturday, prompting swift action from the Punjab chief minister Maryam Nawaz.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed condolences to the grieving family. The CM also ordered the transfer of Lodhran Deputy Commissioner Dr Lubna Nazir shortly after the incident was reported.

According to initial information, the victim, Rehan, a prep-class student, accompanied his father, Allah Rakha, to a local market to buy snacks. After purchasing the items, the father asked the boy to return home while he continued shopping. On the way back, Rehan plunged into an uncovered manhole, estimated to be nearly 20 feet deep.

Rescue teams rushed to the location after receiving an emergency call and managed to retrieve the child after a 30-minute effort. He was given CPR and moved to Lodhran DHQ Hospital, but doctors were unable to save him. The tragic news caused grief and anger among residents.

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Police and civil officials also reached the site and later visited the hospital. Senior officers, including DPO retired Capt Ali Bin Tariq, attended the child’s funeral prayers.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Liaquat Ali Gilani said the Dhanote–Kahror Pacca road was under construction and the underground sewerage network was being laid, leaving several manholes uncovered by the contractor.

Police have booked contractor Haji Muhammad and district council senior sub-engineer Tariq Mahmood for alleged negligence, though neither has been arrested yet. Meanwhile, district council chief officer Rao Muhammad Ali has been surrendered to his parent department and recommended for suspension.