A serious accident occurred during electrical repair work at the Mohbhatta fairground, located within the jurisdiction of the Bilha police station. A contract worker, who was carrying out repairs on an 11 KV power line, came into contact with live current and sustained severe burns. Following the accident, he remained suspended from the utility pole.
With the assistance of bystanders present at the scene, the injured young man was immediately rushed to a hospital, where he is currently undergoing treatment. According to reports, the contract worker had been sent up the pole to perform maintenance on the power line when he suddenly came into contact with the live current. Eyewitnesses stated that the specific line being worked on had not been completely de-energized. Consequently, the accident occurred because current was still flowing through the line while the work was in progress. Upon receiving the electric shock, the young man suffered severe burns and became trapped on the pole. Upon seeing this, local residents and fellow workers managed to bring him down—but only after ensuring the power supply was switched off. Following the incident, the injured worker was immediately transported to the hospital for urgent medical attention. Reports indicate that approximately 20 percent of the young man’s body has sustained burns. He is currently receiving treatment at CIMS (Chhattisgarh Institute of Medical Sciences).
**Allegations of Work Being Conducted Without Safety Equipment**
Following the accident at the Mohbhatta fairground, serious questions have been raised regarding safety protocols. Eyewitnesses at the scene reported that the contract worker sent up the pole to perform the task was not provided with adequate safety equipment.
For employees working on power lines, safety gear—such as insulated gloves, safety belts, helmets, safety boots, and other protective devices—is considered mandatory; however, no such safety arrangements were evident at the site of the accident. Locals allege that contract workers are frequently compelled to perform tasks in haste, thereby compromising their safety and putting their lives at risk.
Strict adherence to safety protocols is absolutely essential when performing work on 11 KV power lines. Any lapse in safety measures can prove to be fatal. Was the Line Switched Off or Live? The Investigation Will Reveal the Truth. Following the incident, the most critical question being raised is whether the 11 kV line on which work was being conducted had been duly switched off or not. The victim’s co-workers claim that the line remained energized, resulting in the young man suffering an electric shock.
If this claim is substantiated, it will be classified as a case of gross negligence. According to the regulations of the Electricity Department, it is mandatory to obtain a shutdown, completely de-energize the line, and complete all safety checks before commencing any work on high-tension lines. Only after these steps have been completed are employees permitted to climb the utility poles.
Local residents have demanded an impartial inquiry into the matter. They assert that the investigation must clearly establish whether the accident was caused by technical factors or if it resulted from a disregard for safety protocols. The true circumstances surrounding the entire incident will become clear only after the investigation report is released.
