Reported by Manoj Kumar Ojha
Doomdooma: Despite recent electrocution deaths in parts of Assam, workers of the Power Department were seen working on electricity poles in Baghjan in Tinsukia district without proper safety equipment.
Recently, 30-year-old Joakim Kuzur, a resident of Diyamuli 9 No. Line, died of electrocution while connecting wires for a solar streetlight on a concrete pole in the Baghjan Dighal Tarang area.
A photograph taken later on Tuesday shows workers climbing the pole using bamboo ladders placed against it, without safety harnesses, helmets, gloves, or insulated tools.
A utility truck parked nearby was carrying bamboo poles and ladders used for the work.
Another worker was seen higher up on the same pole, continuing the work in a similar manner.
This comes after similar electrocution deaths of power department workers in places like Titabor in Jorhat and other parts of the state, where concerns have been raised about working on live lines and lack of safety gear.
Local residents and the All Assam Tribal Students' Association protested in front of Baghjan Police Station, demanding an investigation and compensation for Kuzur's family.
They said the department had not taken proper safety measures despite earlier incidents.
The recent death has raised concerns about safety practices and responsibility in the department.