After at least eight people were electrocuted during Kolkata Floods, the power utility CESC has denied. It comes in response to CM Mamata Banerjee’s direct accusation of negligence.
In a video statement late Tuesday, a CESC spokesperson said none of the electrocution deaths were connected to the power distribution network. Five deaths caused by faulty internal wiring in homes and a factory. Two involved lamp posts not owned by us, and one was from a traffic signal kiosk panel,” the spokesperson said.
CM alleged CESC for deaths in Kolkata Floods
The response followed Banerjee’s public blame of CESC, where she said, “Electricity is supplied by CESC, not us. It is their duty to ensure people do not suffer because of this. They will do business here, but will not modernise?”
On X (formerly Twitter), the Chief Minister expressed her condolences and confirmed state support for the victims’ families. “There can be no compensation for death and no alternative to life. Yet, we will ensure employment for one member of each of the victim’s families. I have asked CESC to offer compensation as well.”
IMD issues warnings ahead of rainfall
The deaths occurred during a 24-hour downpour that dumped 251.4 mm of rain over Kolkata. This made it the city’s third-wettest September day since 1978 and the 6th heaviest on record across all months. The most intense spell, nearly 185 mm fell between 2:30 am and 5 am Tuesday.
While the IMD warned of more rain ahead due to a low-pressure system developing over the Bay of Bengal, the current system is expected to weaken by Wednesday. Mayor Firhad Hakim called the flooding “unprecedented” and noted that even well-drained areas like Adiganga were overwhelmed.
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