Srinagar, May 28: A 52-year-old worker of the Power Development Department (PDD) lost his life after falling from a ladder during power restoration work in the Kaloosa area of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district, officials said on Thursday.
The deceased has been identified as Muhammad Yousuf Shah, a Permanent Daily Labourer (PDL) posted at Electric Sub Division Kaloosa. He sustained critical injuries after slipping from a ladder and was rushed to a hospital in Srinagar, where he later succumbed, officials added.
A senior officer of the PDD ruled out electrocution, stating the power supply to the area had been switched off prior to the incident.
“He slipped from the ladder and suffered serious injuries. Protective gear has been provided to all employees for safety during field operations,” the concerned Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE) told KNS.
The officer further disclosed that Shah had undergone eye surgery a few months ago, following which he had been advised against duties involving live wires or risky operations.
“We were not allowing him to work with live wires after his eye operation. Unfortunately, a consumer called him for some work, and during the process, he slipped while electricity was already off,” the AEE added.
The incident has sparked concerns over safety protocols for field staff, with some employees pointing to inadequacies in working conditions, particularly during harsh weather. Meanwhile, locals have urged the administration to strengthen safety measures for frontline PDD workers. (KNS)
