Electric fence at Puzhal prison has been non-functional for three years
A senior official said steps are being taken to restore power to the solar-powered perimeter fence using alternating current.
The solar-powered electric fence surrounding the Puzhal prison complex has not worked for three years, according to official sources reported by The Hindu on Sunday.
The failure occurred about three years ago because there was no contract for annual maintenance. While it was previously reported that rain caused a power outage after a Nepal national escaped and was later caught, sources stated the fence has lacked power for a long time.
A senior official in the prison department told The Hindu that authorities are taking steps to restore power using Alternating Current, similar to other central prisons.
The Puzhal complex, which covers 212 acres, includes Central Prison-I, Central Prison-II, and a Special Prison for Women. It was inaugurated in 2006 by the then Chief Minister.
In a related development, Additional Director-General of Police (Prisons) K. Shankar said the Tamil Nadu Prison Department has suspended out-gang duties as a precaution. This prevents convicts from working at fuel stations or prison bazaar stores.
Mr. Shankar stated that the suspension is a temporary measure to prevent potential escapes. He noted that fuel stations will continue to be operated by the Indian Oil Corporation.