Engineer’s Desperate Leap: Financial Woes Drive Second Tragedy at Mumbai’s Atal Setu Bridge

38-Year-Old Engineer’s Desperate Act Sparks Extensive Search Operation

A 38-year-old engineer, burdened by financial stress, jumped off the Atal Setu trans-harbour bridge in Mumbai on the afternoon of July 24. This incident, captured by CCTV cameras, has prompted a large-scale search effort involving multiple agencies.

Details of the Incident:

The engineer, identified as K. Shriniwas from Dombivli, drove his black car to the Nhava Sheva end of the Atal Setu bridge, also known as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link. At approximately 12:30 pm, he parked the car, walked to the railing, and jumped into the sea. This act was recorded by the bridge’s surveillance cameras, which show him stopping his car and taking the fatal leap.

Immediate Response:

Navi Mumbai Police, along with rescue teams from the Atal Setu, coastal police, and local fishermen, immediately launched a search operation to locate Shriniwas. Despite their extensive efforts, the search continues.

Background and Possible Motive:

According to officials, Shriniwas had spoken to his wife and four-year-old daughter earlier in the day. His family revealed that he was grappling with severe financial difficulties, which likely drove him to this desperate act. This was not his first suicide attempt; in 2023, while working in Kuwait, he had tried to end his life by ingesting floor cleaner.

Previous Incidents:

This tragic event marks the second suicide from the Atal Setu bridge this year. On March 20, a female doctor also ended her life by jumping from the same bridge, highlighting a troubling trend of distress among individuals.

Support for Those in Distress:

Authorities urge individuals facing similar struggles to seek help. Several helplines are available for those in distress or experiencing suicidal thoughts:

BMC Mental Health Helpline: 022-24131212 (24x7)

Vandrevala Foundation: 18602662345 / 18002333330 (24x7)

I Call: 022-25521111 (Monday to Saturday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.)

ASRA: 022 2754 6669 (24x7)

The Samaritans Mumbai: 8422984528 / 842984529 / 8422984530 (5 p.m. - 8 p.m., all days)

Ongoing Investigation:

The Nhava-Sheva Police are conducting further investigations to understand the full context and circumstances leading to this tragic incident. The community and authorities alike are left grappling with the heartbreaking loss and the urgent need for mental health awareness and support.