SANGUEM
Attempts to pluck mangoes ended in tragedy when a woman got electrocuted after reportedly coming into contact with a low-hanging high-tension power line at Xeldem in Quepem.
The deceased has been identified as Socorrina Fram, a daily wage worker from Tilamol. She had reportedly gone near a mango tree after noticing ripe fruit and was attempting to pluck them using a metal pipe when the mishap occurred.
She is believed to have either slipped or accidentally touched the high-tension wires hanging at a dangerously low height. The electric shock led to her instantaneous death. The impact of the electrocution also sparked a fire in the surrounding dry grass.
The incident has triggered strong reactions from residents, who have squarely blamed the Electricity Department for alleged negligence. The local Sarpanch stated that the high-tension wires in the area are hanging at an approximate height of about six metres, posing a serious threat to public safety.
Villagers alleged that despite previous incidents and repeated complaints, no effective steps have been taken to address the hazard. The area has been described as accident-prone, with residents expressing concern over the continued risk to their lives.
Locals have demanded urgent intervention from the authorities, calling for the height of the wires to be increased or the lines to be shifted underground to prevent recurrence of such fatal incidents.
