Lives on the line: 46 Himachal power board workers die in 5 yrs

As many as 46 field staff members of the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) have lost their lives while carrying out repair and maintenance work over the past five years, exposing the dangerous conditions under which electricity workers continue to operate across the state. More than 80 others have suffered serious injuries during the same period, with several rendered permanently incapacitated.

The latest tragedy occurred in Palampur two days ago, where a 32-year-old lineman died after being electrocuted while working on an 11 kV power line.

On the same day, an outsourced worker sustained serious injuries in Kullu and is currently undergoing treatment.

The repeated accidents have once again triggered concern among employees and unions over the safety of field staff responsible for maintaining the state’s transmission and distribution network.

Workers’ representatives allege that severe staff shortages are forcing employees to work under unsafe conditions and without adequate support.