A 22-year-old from Budgam, Syed Muneeb, died instantly after touching a live electric pole while collecting firewood during a picnic in Athwatoo, Bandipora. The victim, part of a five-member group, suffered fatal burns, with eyewitnesses blaming faulty power lines.
His body was declared “brought dead” at District Hospital Bandipora, where autopsy will confirm the exact cause. Authorities have launched a probe into potential power department negligence, examining the pole’s wiring condition and maintenance history. This marks the third electrocution death in north Kashmir this monsoon, reigniting safety concerns about electrical infrastructure near recreational areas. Local residents demand immediate safety audits of picnic spots.
The incident has sparked community outrage, with calls for stricter enforcement of electrical safety protocols. Police are verifying witness accounts while the Power Development Department begins emergency inspections. Muneeb’s grieving family awaits the investigation’s findings as authorities promise accountability. (Source: KNO)
