Bengaluru: Five people were electrocuted while four sustained burn injuries after the tractor, in which they were travelling, came in contact with a high-tension wire in Kanaswadi village in Doddaballapur police station limits early Sunday. The deceased have been identified as Anjinappa (25), Arun (22), Pawanraj (22), Nagesh (22) and Darshan (23); while Nikhith (20), Chandan (19) and Hampesh (27) sustained burns.
According to the police, the incident took place around 12.30 am, between Marasandra and Kanaswadi villages while they were returning after Ganesha idol immersion. While crossing a mud track the tractor tilted and a 10-feet tall metal arch, which was used to decorate the Ganesh idol, came in contact with a low lying overhead high tension wire.
While some people in the vehicle managed to jump out, five persons suffered electric shock and died instantly, whereas four others were injured, the police added. The fellow travellers immediately alerted the police and rushed them to Sapthagiri Hospital.
Meanwhile, angry villagers later staged a protest in front of the local Bescom office blaming their negligence and apathy for the tragedy. The villagers also alleged that despite several complaints, the officials concerned had not rectified the problem.
Senior Bescom officials, along with the local leaders, rushed to the spot and assured the protestors that necessary measures will be taken to ensure that safety norms regarding high tension wires were followed. They also assured that strict action will be taken against officials concerned and compensation will be paid to the next of kin of the victims. Doddaballapur police have registered a case and begun investigations.
