15 dead after transformer explodes at Namami Gange project site in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand,July 19: As many as fifteen people, including a police officer, died and several others were injured after a transformer exploded on the banks of the Alaknanda River, electrifying a bridge, in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli. The injured people have been rushed to the hospital for treatment and police and rescue teams have reached the spot and have started relief operations.
The bridge, which is part of the Namami Gange project, spans the Alaknanda river.
The incident took place last night. Police got a call from the village that a watchman had died of electrocution. When police personnel went with villagers for the panchnama (spot inspection), many people were electrocuted and suffered severe injuries.
“Around 15 people, including a police sub-inspector & five home guards have died. An investigation is underway. Prima facie reveals that there was a current on the railing and the investigation will reveal further details,” Additional Director General of Police, Uttarakhand, told ANI.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has ordered a judicial probe into the incident. The outpost in charge of Pipalkoti also lost his life in the mishap.
“This is a very unfortunate incident. Police, SDRF and rescue teams are present at the spot. Strict action will be taken against the guilty,” the chief minister said.
“The injured are being referred to a higher centre and are being shifted to AIIMS Rishikesh via helicopter. Orders have been given to conduct a magisterial inquiry,” he added.
The mishap has sparked anger among the locals and they are blaming the officials from the energy corporation department for their negligence and have also demanded action against them.
-ANI
