2 power employees sacked, 2 suspended over transformer explosion

Varanasi: Two employees of the electricity department have been dismissed and two others suspended, following a transformer explosion that injured four people in Moti Nagar, Usia village, under Dildarnagar police station of Ghazipur district. Sharing details on the action on ‘X', UP Energy Minister AK Sharma on Monday said the dismissed employees are lineman Mantu Singh Kushwaha and Substation Officer Azad Singh Kushwaha, who were directly involved in the installation process of the transformer. Junior Engineer Shashikant Patel and SDO Kamlesh Kumar were suspended. Besides, an FIR has been filed against two persons— Mantu Singh Kushwaha and Saddam Khan— residents of Usia village, for their involvement in the illegal installation of the transformer. Strict action would be taken against those involved in such illegal activities, he said.In his post, Sharma wrote, "Yesterday, in Jamaniya area of Ghazipur district, an accident occurred at an ice factory in Usia village under the Dildar Nagar electricity subdivision, where a 25 KVA transformer was illegally and unauthorizedly installed, resulting in injuries to several individuals. We wish them a speedy recovery."He further wrote that this incident brought to light some more serious issues. There appear to be illegal dealings involving transformers and the electrical system in Ghazipur district, with potential involvement of mafias and political protection. The transformer was installed illegally and without authorization at an ice factory that had its connection cut off due to unpaid bills. In Moti Nagar, Usia village, a 25 KVA transformer was burned out for several days. A replacement transformer was brought by tempo on Sunday, and after removing the old one, the new transformer was installed, and electricity supply was initiated. However, 10 minutes later, the transformer exploded, and its boiling oil sprayed onto passersby. As a result, four persons sustained severe burn injuries.Further investigations are underway to identify others involved in the illegal installation of the transformer.