Worker dies from electrocution: energy advisor blames DPDC, contractor

Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources Advisor Fouzul Kabir Khan has refused to classify the recent death by electrocution of a line worker in Dhaka’s Maniknagar as merely an accident.

“This is not an accident; it is complete negligence and irresponsibility. The DPDC [Dhaka Power Distribution Company Limited], the company, and the contracting firm cannot evade responsibility,” said Fouzul.

He added, “This negligence has resulted in one death and two serious injuries. Strict actions will be taken against everyone involved."

The incident occurred on Monday evening, when foreman Md Nabi Hossain was electrocuted while working on high-voltage, or HT, cable lines in Maniknagar. Two other workers, Masum Mia and Robiul Islam, were seriously injured and are currently receiving treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital.

Nabi was employed by M/S Moon Power Engineering Company, an annual contractor for DPDC’s Maniknagar division.

The advisor visited the hospital’s burns unit on Friday to check on the injured. He had previously inspected the accident site and directed officials to investigate the cause of the incident.

“We have not taken power; we have assumed responsibility. This cannot be treated as the previous government did,” said Advisor Fouzul.

He directed the hospital authorities to provide complete care for the injured workers and instructed DPDC to assign staff to assist with their recovery.

In addition, the advisor announced compensation of Tk 500,000 for the family of the deceased Nabi, Tk 200,000 for the critically injured, and Tk 100,000 for the other injured worker.

The advisor said the government would cover all medical expenses for the injured.

bdnews24.com could not obtain comments from DPDC and the contracting company regarding the advisor’s statements.