22-year-old wage worker electrocuted to death while repairing power line in Ballari

BALLARI: A 22-year-old daily wage worker was electrocuted to death while carrying out repair work on an electricity pole near Dhyana Mandira, close to Sanganakal village in Ballari district, on Thursday.

The deceased has been identified as Hulagappa (22), a resident of Yarragudi village. He had come for the work on a dailywage basis for a Hescom-related repair job. While climbing the electricity pole, electricity reportedly passed through the line and he died hanging from the pole, officials said.

According to eyewitnesses, Hulagappa shouted “save, save “for about 15 minutes while struggling to save his life. Other workers present at the spot tried to rescue him, but were unable to do so and stood helpless, they said.

Locals have alleged that no concerned officials or linemen were present at the spot when the incident occurred. They also alleged that the work was carried out without obtaining an LC (Line Clear) to completely shut off the power supply.

Due to this, family members and locals have accused BESCOM officials and the labour contractor of negligence, saying it led to the tragedy. They have demanded strict action against those responsible. The body has been sent for post-mortem. Ballari Rural police have registered a case and taken up an investigation. (ANI)