Transformers turn into death traps

Absence of fence around transformers poses danger to city residents

BY OUR STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI, Aug 3: Despite the death of several persons in the city and other parts of the State due to electrocution, the State power department seems to have apparently learnt no lessons from such incidents.

In several localities of the city electric transformers installed by the Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) are without security fence, which is an open invitation to disaster.

Electric transformers have been installed close to the ground, which adds to the danger during monsoon season as many areas of the city are affected by floods. 

One such transformer at Anil gar area of the city, which was installed very close to the ground with low-lying wires, is posing a grave threat to the lives of the people.

The transformer installed without a safety fence at the flood-hit area has now become a death trap.

“The transformer has been installed very close to the ground with low-lying wires posing a grave threat to lives of people, particularly children. We have pointed this out to APDCL officials several times, but nothing has been done,” said Madhusudan Das, a resident of Anil gar.

In May, 2013 a woman identified as Basanti Devi was electrocuted by a live electric wire close to the transformer.

She was returning home after her trip to the market in Anil gar area when she came in contact with the live electric wire near the road and died on the spot.

City residents alleged further alleged that even power lines supplying electricity to streetlights have become death traps for commuters as they remain uncovered and dangle on the road.  According to reports, at least 30 people, including five in Guwahati, have lost their lives due to electrocution across the state in the last few weeks.