Is Another Electrocution Death in Bengal Raising Concerns?
Synopsis
Yet another tragedy unfolds in Kolkata as a 66-year-old woman becomes the latest victim of electrocution, raising the death toll to 11. As waterlogging persists, questions arise about urban infrastructure and safety. What will be done to prevent further incidents?
Key Takeaways
Electrocution incidents in Kolkata have surged to alarming levels.
Victims are often impacted by submerged electricity wires in waterlogged areas.
Government and private sectors must enhance infrastructure for public safety.
Compensation is being provided to the affected families.
Legal authorities are demanding accountability from power suppliers.
Kolkata, Sep 27 (NationPress) A tragic incident of electrocution has occurred in Kolkata, claiming the life of a 66-year-old woman on Saturday.
The victim, identified as Srabanti Debi, was found in front of her shop located on Behala-Sarsuna Road in the southern part of Kolkata. This incident marks the 11th electrocution-related death in the region since September 16.
Eyewitnesses reported that Srabanti was unable to open her shop since Tuesday due to severe waterlogging in the area. On Saturday, she ventured outside to lift the shutter while standing in the rainwater that had accumulated. Tragically, she came into contact with a bare electricity wire submerged in the water and was electrocuted.
Local residents informed both the police and the private power provider, CESC Limited, about the accident. The victim's body was taken to Vidyasagar Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
A CESC official confirmed that the wire involved was connected to a light on the shop's teen shade. The previous week, on September 16, ten individuals, including eight in Kolkata, lost their lives due to similar incidents involving exposed electricity wires in waterlogged areas.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized CESC Limited, stating that despite her numerous warnings, the company failed to enhance its infrastructure. Following the incident, CESC announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for each victim's family, while the state government pledged Rs 2 lakh per family.
This week, the Calcutta High Court ordered CESC Limited to submit a report regarding the multiple electrocution fatalities that occurred on September 23. Simultaneously, the court directed the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) to report on the measures taken to improve the city's sewerage system and alleviate waterlogging.
Point of View
I observe with deep concern the rising toll of electrocution deaths in Kolkata. This alarming trend not only highlights significant lapses in infrastructure management but also raises pressing questions about accountability. The government and power distribution companies must work collaboratively to enhance safety measures to protect citizens from such preventable tragedies.
NationPress
5 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Srabanti Debi?
Srabanti Debi, a 66-year-old woman, tragically lost her life due to electrocution while trying to open her shop amid waterlogging in Kolkata.
How many electrocution deaths have occurred in Kolkata since September 16?
Since September 16, the total number of electrocution deaths in Kolkata has risen to 11.
What compensation is being offered to the victims' families?
CESC Limited announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for each victim's family, while the state government pledged Rs 2 lakh per family.
What has the Chief Minister said regarding this situation?
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has criticized CESC Limited for failing to improve its infrastructure, despite repeated warnings.
What actions is the Calcutta High Court taking?
The Calcutta High Court has requested a report from CESC Limited about the electrocution deaths and directed the KMC to report on sewerage system improvements.
