India, July 14 -- The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to introduce a prototype 'Manhole Rail Guard' on a pilot basis in L Ward to enhance safety for both pedestrians and civic workers during manhole maintenance and repair works.

The square-shaped safety barrier, developed by a private organisation, was inspected by mayor Ritu Tawde and additional municipal commissioner (projects) Abhijit Bangar at the BMC headquarters on Monday. Several corporators were also present during the demonstration.

The move comes amid heightened focus on manhole safety following recent incidents involving open manholes during the monsoon. The pilot project will help the civic body assess the effectiveness of the device before taking a decision ...