Munish Sood
Mandi
In a tragic workplace incident, an employee of the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) lost his life due to electrocution at the regional workshop in Mandi on Monday morning. The incident has raised serious concerns over the safety and condition of infrastructure at government-operated facilities.
The deceased, identified as Pawan Guleria (57), was a resident of Arthi village in the Mandal Bhangrotu area. He had been serving as a Washer Boy in the HRTC workshop and was due to retire next month.
Accident Occurred While Reporting for Duty
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred as Guleria was changing clothes to begin his shift. He accidentally touched an iron pole carrying electric current. In an attempt to regain balance, he grabbed another nearby pole—which was also electrified—causing him to collapse into water accumulated on the floor. He died on the spot.
Co-workers rushed him to the Zonal Hospital in Mandi, where doctors declared him brought dead.
Manager Technical Speaks to TNR
Speaking exclusively to TNR (The News Reporter), Manager Technical Vinod Pal stated:
“So far, a short circuit appears to be the likely cause of the electrocution. It has been raining continuously for the past three days, and the changing room is made of iron. Somewhere, moisture might have led to an electrical short. We have initiated a formal investigation into the matter.”
Rain-Flooded Workshop Turned into a Hazard
Other staff members highlighted that the entire workshop had been waterlogged due to continuous rainfall. Brij Lal, one of the employees, reported that rainwater was not only pooled on the floor but also leaking from the roof, creating an extremely unsafe environment.
“There are machines and equipment worth crores stored here. In such conditions, the risk of a short circuit is always present. The government needs to intervene before more such tragedies occur,” said Brij Lal.
Police Investigation Underway
Superintendent of Police Sakshi Verma confirmed the incident and informed that a police investigation is currently in progress. The deceased’s post-mortem is being conducted at the Zonal Hospital, and further action will be taken based on the report.
Staff Demand Urgent Safety Measures
Guleria’s sudden death has left fellow employees devastated. They are now demanding immediate safety upgrades and proper drainage systems in all workshops across Himachal Pradesh.
“This was a tragedy waiting to happen. We hope Pawan ji’s death is not ignored, and something is done before it claims more lives,” said another HRTC staffer.
Preventable Loss Due to Negligence
This unfortunate incident has once again highlighted the urgent need for maintenance and safety protocols in government-run institutions, especially during the monsoon season. As the investigation unfolds, employees and families await accountability—and action.
