At least eight labourers died and five others sustained burn injuries after a machine used in road construction came into contact with an overhead electricity line in Rajasthan’s Jhunjhunu district on Monday, police said. Three women and two men sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the deaths and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the next of kin of each deceased. Those injured will receive Rs 50,000 each.
“Saddened by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan. My condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover at the earliest,” the Prime Minister said in a post on X.
The accident occurred in Chhapoli village under the Udaipurwati police station area.
Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed grief over the accident and ordered a high-level inquiry. He sought a detailed report from the district collector and directed officials to ensure prompt and proper treatment of the injured.
The chief minister also directed minister Jhabar Singh Kharra to visit the spot and ensure all possible assistance to those affected by the incident.
Energy Minister Heeralal Nagar said that according to preliminary information, the road was being constructed with public participation and the work was being carried out privately on a small scale.
He said the work was underway on a narrow road connecting Chhapoli to Kadamkund.
Nagar said technical officials had been directed to visit the spot and ascertain the circumstances that led to the accident. “If any departmental or technical lapse is found, action will be taken,” he said.
(With PTI inputs)
