Dangerous powerlines

The tragic deaths of three students from Gazipur's Islamic University of Technology (IUT) raise serious questions about the safety of power transmission line in Bangladesh. Their journey, filled with excitement as they headed for a picnic, ended in grief. Who is to blame for this preventable accident? Did the university authorities, bus drivers, and the electricity department fulfil their duties properly?

On November 3 at 8:30 am, a bus was electrocuted by an 11,000-volt power line as the bus reached Udaikhali village in Telihati Union, Sripur Upazila. Two students were fatally electrocuted, while others sustained severe burns to various parts of their bodies. One more student later succumbed to their injuries.

While the students' lives cannot be brought back, a thorough investigation and legal action against those responsible are essential to prevent future tragedies. Accidents on the road occur regularly, often due to reckless driving or lapses in the traffic system. However, for three IUT students to be electrocuted on their way to a picnic is a glaring example of man-made disaster.

It is critical to secure power transmission lines, not just along roads but everywhere across the country. In developed countries, power lines are often installed underground to prevent such accidents. Why does our electricity department continue to place power lines above ground, putting people at risk? It is time for the authorities to act, even if delayed, to protect lives.

Ashikujaman Syed

A business development manager

[email protected]