Palamu News: Father, Son Die After Contact with 11,000-Volt Wire

Palamu, Jharkhand – In a heartbreaking incident, a father and his son lost their lives after being electrocuted by a high-tension wire in Palamu district. The incident occurred around 9:30 PM on Sunday near the main canal bridge in Kusmania village, under the Haidarnagar police station limits.

According to preliminary reports, the deceased have been identified as 45-year-old Bindu Mehta and his 22-year-old son Vipin Mehta, residents of Simrasot village. The duo was on a motorcycle, heading to a petrol pump to fetch diesel for a generator being used at a family function.

High-Voltage Line Causes Fatal Accident in Kusmania, Palamu

Authorities reported that the two victims came into contact with an 11,000-volt overhead electrical line while passing near the canal bridge in Kusmania. The electric shock was so intense that both father and son died on the spot. Their motorcycle was also completely destroyed by fire following the electrocution.

Eyewitnesses and local sources confirmed that the accident occurred in an area where power lines hang dangerously low, especially in poorly lit zones. The sudden contact with such a high-voltage current left no chance of survival.

Generator Fuel Trip Ends in Tragedy Amid Wedding Festivities

Tragedy struck the Mehta family on the eve of a major celebration. Sources close to the family revealed that preparations were underway for the wedding of Bindu Mehta’s niece, and haldi (turmeric) ceremony rituals were ongoing on Sunday night. During the event, the generator being used for lighting and music ran out of diesel. Bindu and Vipin decided to ride to a nearby petrol pump to refill the fuel tank, unaware of the lurking danger ahead.

As soon as news of the electrocution reached the family, the celebration turned into mourning. Residents described the scene as one of “utter devastation,” with relatives and neighbors gathering in shock and disbelief over the sudden loss of two lives during what was supposed to be a joyful occasion.

Locals Raise Concerns Over Unsafe Electrical Infrastructure in Palamu

The tragic incident has reignited public concern over the condition of power infrastructure in rural areas of Palamu. Villagers allege that despite repeated complaints about sagging high-tension wires near residential areas and public routes, no corrective measures have been taken by the power department.

Community leaders in Kusmania and surrounding villages have urged the district administration and Jharkhand Bijli Vitran Nigam Limited (JBVNL) to conduct an immediate survey of electrical lines, particularly those running near roads, schools, and common public spaces. Many fear that without prompt action, such avoidable deaths may continue.

Police Investigation Underway in Electrocution Case in Haidarnagar

Haidarnagar police have taken cognizance of the matter and are conducting a preliminary investigation. The bodies of the deceased were sent for post-mortem at the local government hospital. Officials are also coordinating with the local electricity board to inspect the accident site.

No FIR has been registered against the electricity department as of now, but villagers are demanding accountability and safety assurance. The District Administration is expected to issue an official statement soon.

Electricity Safety in Rural Jharkhand Under Scrutiny After Palamu Deaths

This incident sheds light on a broader issue of rural infrastructure negligence in Jharkhand. Palamu, being one of the regions often affected by electricity disruptions, continues to grapple with issues such as poorly maintained poles, lack of insulation, and high-voltage lines hanging at unsafe heights.

Safety experts emphasize the urgent need for audits of high-tension wires in villages, especially during events and festivals when outdoor activities extend into the night. Additionally, locals are demanding that proper signages, fencing, and routine inspection be mandated for areas near high-voltage lines.