Hyderabad: Three young men have died, and more than 10 people sustained burn injuries after a high-tension power line came into contact with a wire being lifted to make way for an idol immersion procession in Madhya Pradesh’s Jabalpur district. The incident occurred around 1 am on Wednesday in the Majhauli police station area, with a third victim dying during treatment on Thursday morning.
The procession was carrying an idol from Civil Lines to Narili Pond for immersion on a tractor-trolley, accompanied by more than 50 people. According to officials, a wire was being raised to clear the route when it came into contact with a high-tension line. The wire snapped and fell onto the tractor-trolley, electrocuting people on and around the vehicle.
Vikas Rajput, 22, and Prince Chauhan, 23, who were riding on the tractor, died on the spot. A third young man later succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment.
Several people suffered serious injuries in the incident. Mayank Rajput, Vicky Raikwar, Manish Rajput and Ayush Raikwar were among those critically injured. They were initially taken to the Majhauli health centre and subsequently referred to Jabalpur Medical College for treatment.
The incident led to local residents blocking a road in Majhauli on Thursday morning. Official said the matter was subsequently resolved, clarifying that the gathering was not a protest but a dialogue.
Residents claimed they had previously alerted police, administration officials and members of the organising committee about low-hanging power wires during a meeting and urged them to arrange repairs. However, they alleged that no action was taken.
Police said the bodies had been sent for post-mortem examinations. A case has been registered, and an investigation into the incident is underway.