Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 18 April 2025
Dhairya NGO based in Sri Vijaya Puram, has written to the Superintending Engineer of the Electricity Department raising serious concerns over worker safety, following the tragic death of Mr. Lazarus Kerketta, a Regular Mazdoor who died after falling from an electric pole while on duty.
In a letter dated April 17, the NGO expressed deep sorrow over the incident and called for immediate action to strengthen safety protocols for field workers engaged in hazardous tasks.
“This heart-wrenching incident brings to light the urgent need for proper safety gear and protocols to protect the lives of those working in high-risk environments,” the NGO stated.
Dhairya made a series of appeals to the department, including:
– Immediate provision of standard safety equipment to all mazdoors and line staff
– Regular safety training and briefings for field workers
– Compensation and support for the family of the deceased
– Consideration of a compassionate appointment for a family member
– A thorough investigation into the incident to determine any negligence
Calling for swift and compassionate action, the NGO emphasized that “the safety and dignity of every worker must be upheld as a priority.”
Copies of the letter have also been sent to senior authorities including the Hon’ble Minister of Power, the Chief Secretary of the A&N Administration, the Deputy Commissioner (SA), and the Executive Engineer of the Electricity Department.
Dhairya concluded the letter by offering its support and willingness to collaborate with the department in improving worker welfare and preventing such tragedies in the future.