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Power transformer explodes in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli, 15 killed

Power transformer explodes in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli, 15 killed
Power transformer explodes in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli, 15 killed

Fifteen people, including a police officer, tragically lost their lives and several more were injured in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand after a transformer exploded on the banks of the Alaknanda River. The explosion electrified a bridge, which is part of the Namami Gange project, resulting in a devastating incident.

Last night, the police received a call reporting the death of a guard by electrocution. When police personnel accompanied the villagers for an on-site inspection, many others were also electrocuted, resulting in serious injuries.

Rescue teams and police responded quickly to the situation, providing relief operations and taking the injured to hospitals for treatment.

Chamoli Superintendent Of Police Pramendra Dobhal said the incident took place last night. “We got a call from the village that a security guard has died of electrocution. When police personnel went with villagers for the panchnama (spot inspection), 21 people were electrocuted and suffered severe injuries. 15 people died in a hospital and the rest are critical.”

“Around 15 people including a police sub-inspector and five home guards have died. The investigation is underway. Prima Facie reveals that there was current on the railing and the investigation will reveal the further details,” said State Director General of Police V Murugesan, as quoted by news agency ANI.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident and expressed deep regret over the unfortunate event. The outpost crewed by Pipalkoti also lost their lives in the mishap. Strict action will be taken against those responsible and a judicial investigation has been ordered.

“Dhami said, ‘It is a sad incident. The district administration, police, and SDRF have reached the spot. They are referring the injured to a higher center and shifting them to AIIMS Rishikesh via helicopter.'”

The locals are expressing anger and blaming the department officials of the energy corporation for negligence, demanding that appropriate action be taken against them for this tragic incident.

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