Over 16,000 hazardous power zones still unattended

A recent survey in eight districts under BESCOM’s jurisdiction uncovered 60,030 hazardous electrical spots, of which 43,182 have been repaired on a priority basis. However, 16,848 dangerous zones—often likened to ‘death traps’—remain unattended. BESCOM’s negligence has led to the deaths of 869 people in the past five years due to electrocution from exposed wires and faulty transformers.

Among these, 555 died on the spot and 314 suffered severe burns. Additionally, 418 cattle deaths have been reported. Many transformers across public spaces lack safety fencing. Exposed wires dangle in residential areas, junction boxes are accessible to children, and aging electric poles are ready to collapse, especially in slums and new development zones.

Flex banners and unauthorized cables further crowd the power lines, posing severe safety threats. The aging HT and LT power lines—spanning thousands of kilometers—frequently fall due to weather conditions.

BESCOM officials are urged to convert overhead HT lines to underground cables and replace LT lines with insulated aerial bundled cables to prevent accidents. Public outcry has pushed BESCOM to act, but with thousands of high-risk zones still unresolved, the fear of further tragedies looms.

 Residents demand stricter safety norms and immediate repairs to protect lives. BBMP officials hailed the recovery as a significant step toward financial discipline and accountability among government institutions. They emphasized that this success sets a precedent for future collections and sends a clear message that no entity, including government bodies, is exempt from paying property taxes.