The Chhattisgarh High Court recently ruled that the Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL) was liable for the death of an individual caused by electrocution due to improper earthing. This judgment emphasized the power company's responsibility to ensure public safety and the proper maintenance of its infrastructure. The court’s decision sheds light on the legal obligations of utility providers and their accountability in cases of negligence.
The case arose from a tragic incident where a man lost his life after coming into contact with an electrified metal pole. Upon investigation, it was found that the earthing of the electric pole was either improperly done or not maintained as per required safety standards. This failure led to a leakage of electricity, turning the pole into a hazard. The victim’s family approached the court seeking justice and compensation for the loss of life caused by the company’s negligence.
In its judgment, the court underlined that public utility providers like CSPDCL have a duty to maintain their infrastructure in a safe condition. The court observed that electricity is inherently dangerous and that companies engaged in its distribution must exercise the highest degree of care to prevent harm to individuals. It further noted that improper earthing is a clear violation of the standards of care required under the Electricity Act, 2003, and related safety regulations.
The court rejected arguments from the power company that it had taken reasonable precautions and that the incident was an unavoidable accident. It emphasized that the evidence demonstrated clear lapses in the maintenance and inspection of the electric pole, making CSPDCL directly responsible for the fatality. The judgment also reinforced that companies cannot evade liability for such accidents by citing generic defenses or shifting blame to other factors.
The court awarded compensation to the victim’s family, holding that negligence leading to the loss of life calls for monetary redress. This decision serves as a reminder to public utility providers of their legal and moral obligations to ensure the safety of their operations and infrastructure. It highlights the importance of rigorous compliance with safety standards and proactive measures to prevent accidents, especially those involving hazardous services like electricity.
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