Chennai Citizen Connect: Exposed power lines put lives at risk on Shastri Nagar lanes

CHENNAI: Residents of Shastri Nagar in Pulianthope are living in fear as electrical cables have been left open in an unsafe condition. The issue was particularly concerning as the pathway is frequently used by residents.

In Shastri Nagar, particularly on 5th, 10th and 15th Streets, and 15th Street in New Thiru Vi Ka Street, electrical cables are exposed along the pathways used by residents every day.

People lamented facing difficulties while passing through the area, as the wires remain exposed without proper protection.

Since the area has a large number of residential houses, open power lines has caused concern among the public. With monsoon on the way and intermittent showers in the city, residents are anxious over safety.

They said rainwater and moisture could lead to electrical leakage, posing a risk of electrocution to pedestrians. The risk could increase further when rainwater accumulates in the area.

A resident, Sugandhi, on 15th Street in New Thiru Vi Ka Street, said, “The wires have been exposed here for more than a year. Despite several complaints, no action has been taken yet. Hundreds of families live with children and senior citizens. These wires should be properly secured.”

Concurring with her was another resident, Perumal, who added: “The wires were removed when stormwater drain work was carried out. Later, they were not properly restored even though it was on a public pathway.”

A senior TNPDCL official told DT Next, “The cables were placed externally during the stormwater drain works. Locations where such issues have been reported will be inspected and necessary action will be taken. Once the works are completed, the exposed cables will be properly arranged and secured safely.”