Srinagar: Notwithstanding crores of rupees being pumped in reforming the power infrastructure in Kashmir valley, majority of the work has been done in a haphazard manner with least concern shown for the safety of people.
In several localities in Srinagar and other major towns, electric transformers installed by the Power Development Department (PDD) to sustain the proper supply are without mandatory security fence, an open invitation to disaster.
It has been seen that the open lying transformers inside parks and on roadsides are posing a serious threat to the lives of the people. The maximum threat looms large over the children who while playing do not pay attention towards the unbarricaded transformers and come in contact with the uninsulated live wires, one of the observers said.
He said that electric transformers have been installed close to the ground, which adds to the danger winter months when electric short-circuits are common.
Sources in the PDD said that these transformers possess the high voltage naked cables and conductors, which are easily accessible by the human beings. Though these transformers sustain power supply, but can prove fatal at times as hundreds of these have not been still properly installed.
Sources said that, hundreds of the transformers in different places are placed on cement and wooden pillars at a low height and with no proper fencing. 70 percent of the distribution transformers installed across the state are without fencing which can be fiddled with very easily, said a source in PDD.
A distribution transformer is an important link between any utilitys distribution network and the power supply delivered to customer. It is therefore the most vital asset in any electrical distribution network and needs special attention right from erection, commissioning and maintenance. However sources said that the department seems to be in no mood to take remedial action.
One of the senior officials in the PDD said that most of the transformers were placed long time back and later, roads were constructed. In some cases, people encroached upon roads and built walls. We have fenced transformers wherever possible, the official said insisted not to be named.
Source in the power department said that though there is a proper budget for fencing of transformers, the department has not taken a serious note to fence it.
Sources said that the inspection wing of PDD, which is supposed to conduct an investigation into fatal and non-fatal electrical accidents and analyse the causes and recommend remedial measures, exists only on paper.
The Electricity Act, and the Indian Electricity Rules, has laid clear guidelines on electrical installations. There should be a minimum distance of 2.5 metres on lines passing over flat roofs, open balcony, verandah and 3.7 metres for high voltage lines up to 33kV.
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