Eight labourers electrocuted during road construction in Rajasthan's Jhunjhunu
Five others sustained burn injuries after a machine hit a high-tension power line in Chhapoli village.
Eight labourers died and five others suffered burn injuries after being electrocuted during road construction work in Chhapoli village, Rajasthan's Jhunjhunu district, on Monday, according to The Tribune and The Hawk.
The accident occurred while workers were building a narrow road connecting Chhapoli to Kadamkund. Udaipurwati Station House Officer (SHO) Rampal said a machine intended for mixing gravel struck an overhead high-tension electricity line, causing current to pass through the equipment.
Energy Minister Heeralal Nagar stated that the road project was being carried out privately on a small scale with public participation. He said technical officials have been instructed to investigate the circumstances and take action if any departmental or technical lapses are identified.
Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed grief and ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident. He directed the district collector to provide a detailed report and instructed officials to ensure the injured receive prompt medical treatment.
Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot called for a thorough investigation to determine responsibility and urged the state government to provide adequate compensation to the families. Former MLA Rajendra Gudha visited the site and demanded government jobs for the kin of the deceased.
Local residents staged a protest at the site to demand accountability for safety at the construction location.