Investigation Called for After Boy Injured on High‑Voltage Near Festival Gate

Bilaspur authorities have been asked to launch a probe after a young man suffered a high‑voltage electric shock while working on a Janmashtami welcome gate. The gate, erected on Kumharpara Road under an active 11 kV line, collapsed into a dangerous proximity to the power source. The victim, identified as Raj from Omenagar Jarabhata, was attaching a decorative pot on the gate when the live wire touched the structure, sending a strong current through his body.

Emergency responders arrived promptly, lowered the victim, and transported him via auto‑rickshaw to a nearby medical facility. Rapid care prevented a fatal outcome, but the boy remains seriously wounded. The episode has ignited debate over the lack of pre‑event safety audits and the responsibility of municipal and electricity departments to enforce clearances.

Citizens argue that a formal inspection should have been mandatory, and that the organizing committee should have been instructed on maintaining a safe distance from high‑voltage infrastructure. The incident also highlights potential dangers during adverse weather, when wind and rain can increase the likelihood of contact between power lines and metal installations.

Stakeholders are now pressing for an immediate review of all temporary festival structures, stricter enforcement of electrical safety codes, and accountability measures to safeguard the public at future events.