In a tragic incident that underscores the dangers faced by utility workers, a 39-year-old contract employee lost his life Wednesday evening after being electrocuted while working on an electricity pole in Devanahalli, on the outskirts of Bengaluru.

Key facts

  • Victim identified as Palayya, 39, working under Bescom contractor
  • Incident occurred around 5 p.m. near Sulibele Road
  • Case registered under Section 106 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita

A Fatal Moment

Palayya had climbed the pole to carry out routine maintenance work when he made contact with a live electrical line. The shock proved instantly fatal—he died on the spot, leaving behind questions about what went wrong in a job that demands strict safety measures.

Safety Procedures Questioned

The official complaint points to possible lapses in mandatory protocols. It alleges failures in following Line Clearance or Shutdown procedures, inadequate supervision, and a lack of proper personal protective equipment. These aren't minor oversights; they're vital safeguards meant to prevent exactly this kind of tragedy.

"The complaint alleges possible lapses in following mandatory electrical safety procedures, including Line Clearance/Shutdown (LC), supervision and provision and use of personal protective equipment (PPE)."

Investigation Underway

Devannahalli Police have registered a case and are digging into the circumstances. They'll be examining Bescom records—shutdown documents, work orders, safety compliance logs—anything that can shed light on whether negligence played a role. The contractor, Ravish (also referred to as Margadarulu Gangadhar), and concerned Bescom officials are under scrutiny.

For now, a family grieves, and a community is reminded of the quiet risks that accompany essential work—risks that should never be ignored.