Thiruvananthapuram: Heavy rainfall and strong wind continues to lash the state capital raising serious concern as hidden dangers including downed power lines, dilapidated footpaths, potholed roads and water-logging putting the life of residents at risk.
The death of two persons, who were electrocuted at Pettah has added to the worry as monsoon is gaining strength.
Over the head power lines and cables are posing threat as the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) failing to do the pre-monsoon maintenance of the cables which are sagging over the head putting life at risks. Padmakumar K, general secretary of Ajantha Pullylane Residents Association where the accident occurred, said that the maintenance of the cable didn't happen.
"Multiple incidents of broken cables happened in the past and we took it up with the KSEB authorities. However, they just join the broken cables and leave. The area is not prone to flooding but during heavy downpour, there would be slight water logging which recedes within an hour or so. The accident was an unfortunate one. There was heavy rainfall and coconut palm fell on the power line during the night. The incident occurred early in the morning," said Mr Padmakumar.
Pettah ward councillor Anil Kumar said that there is apathy from the part of the authorities. "There is always a delay in getting a response from KSEB authorities," he alleged.
A top official of KSEB told DC that steps have been taken to do more patrolling and fix the lines to avoid such mishap during monsoon.
"We have formed a quick response team who will respond immediately to distress calls," said the official. The official said that all the 11 KV lines have been laid underground at many parts of the city including Kazhakoottam and Trivandrum.
"The project to move the overhead cables to the underground duct is ongoing across the state. Its a costly and time-consuming affair. Our aim is to achieve the target within 4 years. The project is worth Rs 4000 crores," said the official.
