CHENGDU, Dec 12, 2024 — A fatal accident occurred during the demolition of an old water tower in Jianghua Community, Shiling Street, Longquanyi District, Chengdu. At approximately 11:00 AM on December 12, a large crane’s mechanical arm fractured during operations, causing the top section of the tower to fall and fatally injure a worker, Mr. Deng, who was on-site for cutting operations. Despite immediate medical attention, the worker could not be saved.
Details of the Incident
The accident occurred while dismantling a Category D hazardous structure—a severely deteriorated water tower. The project was initiated following a community vote in November 2024, leading to the selection of Sichuan Bochuan Construction Engineering Co., Ltd. as the main contractor with a total bid of 182,609 yuan. Sichuan Bochuan subcontracted part of the work to:
- Sichuan Jujiekun Construction Engineering Co., Ltd.
- Task: Static cutting of the water tower
- Contract Price: 13,080 yuan
- Chengdu Dinglixin Machinery Equipment Rental Co., Ltd.
- Task: Crane operations for lifting and removal
- Contract Price: 37,700 yuan
Mr. Deng, employed by Sichuan Jujiekun, was responsible for spraying water during the cutting process to reduce dust and cool the cutting equipment. However, during the operation, the main crane’s boom fractured and collapsed, crushing a smaller crane where Mr. Deng was positioned. The collapse caused Mr. Deng to fall from a high elevation, leading to fatal injuries.
Victim and Family Statement
Mr. Deng, nearly 29 years old, was a seasoned worker with years of experience in engineering projects. He was also the family’s primary breadwinner, leaving behind two young children, aged 5 and 7. His wife expressed deep grief, stating that the family had not yet informed Deng’s elderly grandparents, fearing the emotional impact.
Relatives, including a company representative, explained that the cutting task was straightforward and considered low-risk, with a relatively small contract value of 13,080 yuan. The company, experienced in such demolition work, followed instructions from the main contractor, Sichuan Bochuan, and adhered to safety standards. Despite using proper equipment and safety measures, the crane boom failure caused the tragic accident.
Investigation and Accountability
Following the incident, the Longquanyi District authorities promptly launched an investigation led by a team comprising officials from emergency management, public security, housing, construction, and other departments. Preliminary findings identified safety management failures as the root cause:
- The project owner failed to strictly enforce safety protocols for hazardous demolition projects.
- The main contractor did not conduct proper weight assessments, implement safety checks, or draft a scientific construction plan.
As of now:
- The project manager has been suspended pending investigation.
- Two individuals directly involved in the incident have been detained.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the root causes and plan to strictly enforce accountability under relevant safety laws and regulations.
Family’s Call for Resolution
The victim’s family is urging for a quick and fair resolution, stating that they have not received a clear response from the involved companies or officials. Efforts to contact the main contractor, Sichuan Bochuan, have been unsuccessful. Additionally, attempts to reach Jianghua Community authorities were met with restrictions.
Site Updates
Following the accident, the site has been sealed off with safety barriers, and police are maintaining order. New cranes have been deployed to remove the damaged crane arm, while the water tower structure remains standing near residential buildings. Authorities continue to conduct risk elimination operations to ensure safety.
Conclusion
This incident highlights serious lapses in safety management and operational oversight in hazardous construction projects. As families mourn the loss of Mr. Deng, investigations are underway to determine accountability and prevent similar accidents in the future.
