Power dept draws student body’s flak over worker’s death

SHILLONG: A day after a linesman plunged to his death while working atop a high-tension tower line in Nangalbibra sub-station of South Garo Hills, the Garo Students’ Union (GSU), Songsak Unit, has lashed out at the Power department, saying that it should not compromise with the safety of its employees.
In a statement on Wednesday, the GSU claimed that such incidents have happened earlier as well.
“It is not the first time that such type of incident has occurred in Garo Hills. The government and the electrical board should provide all the safety measures such as shock-proof hand gloves, safety belt, harnesses etc, for proper safety to those working in the field,” the statement from GSU said.
The students’ union also claimed witnessing the electrical staff working sans any equipment for protection.
“We vehemently condemn the negligence by the electrical board and urge the government to award an ex gratia to the family member of the deceased. Also, we request the concerned authority to provide all necessary facilities and safety equipment for the employees,” the GSU said.