Migrant labourer attempts suicide

The man, identified as Ashok Nainai (24) from Jharkhand, had come to the city two days ago, along with a friend from his native. The duo was promised jobs at construction sites on contract basis. 

However, while his friend was picked up by a contractor, AshoK was left out. He had been roaming in Velachery for the past two days in search of a job and living on platforms without food. Depressed over the situation, Ashok climbed atop a transmission tower at Basin Bridge, near Coovum River. 

Nearby residents, who saw Ashok on the tower, alerted the police and the Fire and Rescue Service personnel. A team of personnel led by Fire Officer Sampath Kumar rushed to the spot and with the help of residents brought Ashok down using a ladder. 

“He was depressed not finding a job. He had nothing to eat ever since he came to Chennai. He was also worried about his family back in Jharkhand,” Sampath Kumar said. “The Washermepet Fire Station received a call from the police control room around 10.15 am. When we reached the spot. Ashok was half way up the 50-foot tower. With the help of local residents, we brought him down using a ladder.” 

Sampath and his team later took Ashok to the police station and brought him food. “Now, we will try for a job for him,” added Sampath.