Brave Electricians Restore Streetlights Amid Torrential Rains Without Safety Gear
RC Sharma Chanakya
Jammu: In the wake of heavy rainfall and its aftermath across Jammu, the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) sprang into action by appointing officials to tackle public grievances with urgency. Among those rising to the occasion was Assistant Engineer (AE) Er. Deepak Raj Bhat, whose swift and dedicated response has garnered public appreciation.
On the night of September 1, around 9:00 PM, AE Deepak Raj Bhat received a complaint from me regarding non-functional streetlights. Demonstrating remarkable commitment, he dispatched a repair team within just 14 hours. By the following morning-Tuesday, September 2-two dedicated electricians, Bantu Kushawah and Madan Kushvaha, arrived at the site to carry out the repairs.
What makes their effort truly commendable is the fact that they performed the entire task amid continuous heavy rainfall, and most notably, without any standard safety equipment. Onlookers were stunned by the electricians’ courage and professionalism, as they handled live electrical wires in such dangerous conditions-putting their lives at risk to serve the public.
AE Deepak Raj Bhat continued to follow up personally and even made a confirmation call on Tuesday to ensure that the work was being carried out effectively. However, it is worth noting that no response has been received so far from the Executive Engineer, Mr. Simerpal Singh till date since September 1.
This incident not only highlights the dedication of field-level officers like AE Deepak Raj Bhat and his team but also underlines a serious concern-the lack of essential safety gear for frontline workers. These electricians, who risk their lives especially during hazardous weather conditions, deserve not only recognition but also proper protection and a risk allowance for their dangerous service.
It is urged that the JMC formally acknowledge the extraordinary service rendered by AE Er. Deepak Raj Bhat and the two brave electricians. Additionally, it is imperative for the corporation to equip all field staff with adequate safety equipment and
ensure that their efforts are appropriately compensated.
These silent heroes of Jammu remind us that true service often comes unannounced-and sometimes, unprotected.
