Open EB boxes a death trap in waiting

Residents said that it is a frightening experience, especially during nights, as the road is often dark and the open EB boxes could go unnoticed, leading the public to come in contact with live power cables.

“Some of these boxes are almost on the road, due to which motorists often run their vehicles over these cables. With so many electrocutions reported lately, we are concerned that unless something is done immediately, it is a death trap in waiting. Besides, even a small leak could end up with the box catching fire.

The risk increases manifold during rainy days,” said Kumararaja, secretary, Annai Indiranagar Residents Welfare Association.

Residents said that children playing on the roadside as it is a residential area and could be exposed to the cables protruding out of these open boxes. “We have children playing on the street and apprehensions about them coming in contact with live wires is rife. We have sent representations to the authorities concerned, but no step has been taken so far,” said Sundaram P, a resident of Velachery.

Speaking to DT Next, a Tangedco official of Adyar division said, “We are replacing damaged EB pillar boxes. Following this, we are planning to install new boxes with safety measures by fencing it. Temporarily, we will tie the open doors hut with iron hooks.”