Three construction workers fell to their deaths while working on a chimney shaft at an under-construction building at the Phase II of Jawahar Nagar dumping yard power project on Wednesday. The Jawahar Nagar police said that the power project was handled by Re Sustainability Limited (formerly known as Ramky Enviro Engineers Ltd).

The victims, all hailing from Uttar Pradesh, were identified as Suraj Sarkar, 21, Mandal Prakash, 25, and Amit Rai, 28.

The incident took place when the trio, who were on a suspended platform tied to the basement and operated using a pulley mechanism, fell from a height of approximately 40 metres, explained an officer from the Jawaharnagar police. “The platform, which had been rigged to service the 80-metre-high chimney, reportedly snapped, sending the workers plunging mid-task,” he explained.

All three men sustained critical injuries and were rushed to a nearby private hospital. Suraj and Prakash succumbed to their injuries around 12.30 p.m., while Amit died during treatment later in the day at about 4 p.m.

Police said a case of negligence will be registered after statements are recorded from other workers and site managers. “The men were working together on the same platform when it gave way. Initial indications suggest a mechanical failure, but further enquiry will establish responsibility,” added the officer. The bodies have been sent for post-mortem examination. Families of the deceased have been informed, says the police.