A worker in Dhubri suffered severe injuries after being electrocuted while installing an advertisement hoarding near BOC-More on April 3. The incident occurred when he accidentally came in contact with a high-tension wire while handling the metal structure for Cosmo Bazar. Bystanders rushed to help him after witnessing the sparks and his sudden collapse.
Emergency services arrived swiftly, and paramedics transported the injured worker to the Dhubri Civil Hospital. Doctors confirmed that he had sustained severe burns and required immediate medical intervention. His condition remained critical, and specialists monitored him closely to prevent further complications.
Eyewitnesses recalled hearing a loud noise before the worker fell to the ground. Local shopkeepers expressed concern over the unsafe placement of hoardings in areas with overhead electrical lines. They urged authorities to implement stricter safety measures to prevent such accidents in the future.
Residents in the area claimed that similar incidents had occurred in the past, highlighting a pattern of negligence in the advertising industry. Many laborers work without proper safety gear, often unaware of the risks posed by high-voltage wires. Experts emphasized the importance of insulated equipment and trained personnel for such tasks.
Officials from the municipal corporation arrived at the scene to assess the situation. They assured the public that an investigation would determine if any safety violations had taken place. Authorities planned to question the advertising agency responsible for the hoarding’s installation.
Doctors treating the worker noted that electric shock injuries often cause long-term nerve damage and require extensive medical care. Burn specialists worked to stabilize him, and surgeons considered further treatment options depending on his recovery.
The incident raised questions about employer responsibility in ensuring worker safety. Many labor unions demanded stricter enforcement of labor laws, pointing out that untrained workers frequently face life-threatening risks in similar jobs. They called for mandatory safety training and proper equipment for all hoarding installations.
Electricity department officials also visited the site to examine the power lines. They warned businesses against placing hoardings near active electrical infrastructure without prior approval. Engineers suggested that agencies should conduct risk assessments before installing large structures in urban areas.
Local residents urged the government to regulate outdoor advertising more strictly. Many felt that safety guidelines should be made more transparent, with clear penalties for violations. Consumer groups also pointed out that companies advertising through such hoardings should take responsibility for ensuring proper installation procedures.
The laborer’s family members arrived at the hospital in distress. They demanded accountability from the advertising agency and sought financial assistance for his medical treatment. Community members expressed solidarity with the family, calling for immediate action to prevent similar tragedies.
Dhubri’s municipal authorities acknowledged that hoarding-related accidents had increased in recent years. They proposed stricter rules for placing advertisements in public spaces, including compulsory safety audits before installation. Officials assured the public that they would take measures to prevent further incidents.
As the injured worker continued to receive treatment, discussions about workplace safety and government oversight gained momentum. Many hoped that his case would lead to lasting changes in how advertisement hoardings are installed in Assam.
