Taxi Driver Loses Eye After Hitting Loose Manhole Cover

Taxi Driver Loses Sight After Accident Caused by Loose Manhole Cover in Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – A 39-year-old taxi driver, Thiago Calunga Silva, has lost vision in his left eye following a traffic accident caused by a faulty manhole cover. The incident occurred in the northern zone of Rio de Janeiro during a rainstorm. Security camera footage shows Silva's taxi striking the loose cover, causing the vehicle to violently bounce. The impact sent Silva’s cell phone, which was mounted on the dashboard, flying into his face, resulting in severe eye trauma. Silva underwent surgery, but unfortunately, he permanently lost sight in his left eye. "The impact was tremendous," said a witness who wished to remain anonymous. "The taxi practically flew into the air." Another witness added, "This manhole cover has been loose for weeks; it’s a recurring problem, especially when it rains." Águas do Rio, the company responsible for maintaining the city's water infrastructure, issued a statement assuring residents that they would promptly replace the damaged manhole cover. They also stated that they are investigating the circumstances that led to the cover being left unsecured. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper infrastructure maintenance and its impact on public safety. The city is urging residents to report any similar safety hazards they encounter.