By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma has expressed dismay over the incident where seven members from two families, mostly students, were electrocuted in Khliehriat West village in East Jaintia Hills District on Wednesday midnight. Talking to media persons here in the city on Friday, Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma wanted the MeECL to upscale their efficiency and said that the Corporation cannot shrug off its responsibility.
According to the Chief Minister the funds allocated to the MeECL have provisions for including safety measures.
When contacted, Power Minister Clement Marak informed that he has asked the Director to look into the matter and report back to him.
The Minister, who is in Garo Hills at the moment on a peace mission, said he will collect all the details of the incident on Saturday, when he returns back from Garo Hills.
Meanwhile, a press release issued by the Inspectorate of Electricity said that ‘such incidents are avoidable provided the rules and regulations are adhered to during construction of houses or lines’.
The Inspectorate has also warned the citizens of the dangers of residing in close proximity to electric lines.
Meanwhile, the Jaintia Coal Miners’ and Dealers’ Association has blamed the MeECL field staff for negligence of duty leading to the tragedy.
The Association has demanded punitive action against the MeECL staffs and has asked the Corporation to conduct an impartial inquiry into the incident and provide compensation to the families of the victims.
It may be mentioned that leakage of power from an 11 KV pole into the nearby water pipes connected to a house led to the tragedy which left seven people dead.
