Bhatti Orders Crackdown on Dangling Cables
Bhatti also directed that strict action be taken against unauthorised electricity connections. Only connections installed by department personnel would be permitted.
Hyderabad: Following multiple deaths due to electrocution over two days, Deputy Chief Minister and power minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has directed the energy department officials to remove hazardous cable wires hanging from electricity poles on a war footing.
At review meeting on Tuesday, he noted that despite multiple notices served to cable operators over the past year, little action has been taken. Bhatti made it clear there would be no further leniency and ordered immediate clearance of wires from poles to safeguard citizens.
Bhatti also directed that strict action be taken against unauthorised electricity connections. Only connections installed by department personnel would be permitted.
He further instructed officials to speed up underground cable works in Hyderabad. The meeting also reviewed the detailed project report for the underground network and examined power supply requirements for lift irrigation projects with abundant water availability.
Elsewhere, southern discom chairman and managing director Musharaf Faruqui urged mandap organisers and the public to exercise utmost caution regarding electricity supply during the transport of Ganesh idols and at pandal venues.
He said preliminary inquiries into the electrocution incidents over 48 hours had indicated no negligence on the part of the electricity department, but other factors had contributed to the tragedies. On Tuesday, he personally inspected the Bandlaguda accident site and reviewed the circumstances.
Faruqui directed electricity staff to ensure that all networks along procession routes are free of faults or deficiencies. He appealed to devotees and pandal organisers to strictly follow safety protocols.
Safety guidelines for Ganesh idol transportation
Plan transportation routes according to idol height; report issues to electricity staff.
Maintain at least two feet of clearance from power lines, as induction effects occur in close proximity.
Exercise caution with cranes, trucks, and tall metal idols.
Avoid heavy use of metal frames in decorations.
Safety Measures at Pandals
1. Don’t climb poles for electricity connections; connections should only be handled by electricity staff.
2. Use ISI-marked certified electrical wires; avoid using joint wires. Install MCBs (miniature circuit breakers).
3. Inspect surroundings before carrying out any electrical work. Keep children away from wires, poles, and other electrical equipment.
4. In the event of anyone receiving an electric shock, immediately provide medical aid and inform nearby electricity personnel about the incident.
5. Inspect all wiring daily for leaks or damage, especially during rain, when moisture can increase the risk of shocks.
6. In case of downed power lines or other emergencies, immediately call the electricity helpline at 1912 or the nearest call center to report the issue.
7. Avail electrical connections to pandals only through TGSPDCL departmental staff; never attempt unauthorized connections.
8. Ensure supervision and maintenance of electrical work is done only by licensed wireman permit holders.
9. Report snapped wires immediately to the department Fuse Call Office via 1912; never touch them.
