Three linemen suffer severe burns in Kanpur after ladder touches high-tension power line
Three employees of the Street Light Department were severely injured in Kanpur's Kidwainagar area on Saturday after their bamboo ladder came into contact with a high-tension power line. The incident occurred near the Baradevi temple while they were repairing street lights following rainfall. One worker sustained critical injuries, including severe burns to both hands and a fractured jaw, sparking concerns over workplace safety protocols.
VIMARSHNAARAD TVA distressing accident occurred in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, on Saturday. Three linemen from the Street Light Department were performing maintenance work near the western gate of the Baradevi temple in Kidwainagar. During the operation, their bamboo ladder accidentally made contact with a high-tension electricity line, resulting in a severe electric shock that left all three workers badly burned.
According to reports, the team had been dispatched to address street light malfunctions reported following recent rainfall. As the ladder touched the live wires, the workers suffered immediate and intense electrical discharge. One of the linemen sustained the most critical injuries, suffering severe burns to both hands and a broken jaw.
Upon receiving news of the incident, local residents and departmental officials rushed to the scene. The injured were promptly transported to a nearby hospital for emergency medical care. Medical staff indicated that while the condition of one worker remains critical, the others are currently receiving treatment for their injuries.
As reported by Amar Ujala, the accident took place while the staff were attempting to resolve post-rain electrical issues. The incident has triggered a local discussion regarding the adequacy of safety standards and the availability of protective equipment for field workers.
Electricity department officials have ordered an investigation into the matter. Authorities are currently determining whether safety protocols were strictly followed during the maintenance work. The health status of the injured workers is being closely monitored.
The incident has caused significant concern in the area. Local residents have urged the electricity department to ensure that extra precautions are taken during future repair tasks and that staff are provided with better safety gear.
Senior officials from the Kanpur administration and the electricity department are overseeing the situation. The families of the injured have been notified, and assurances of all possible support have been provided to them.