A man died after coming in contact with a 33kV electric wire while collecting tree branches near Batgaon village under Naktideul police limits in Sambalpur district.
The incident occurred on Tuesday morning when Dhananjay Rout, 59, climbed a tree to gather fodder for his goats. He accidentally touched a high-voltage wire and died instantly.
Villagers noticed his body hanging from the tree and immediately informed the electricity department. Officials reached the spot more than three hours later, triggering anger among locals. The delay led to tension at the site as residents demanded accountability for the slow response.
Police from Naktideul station arrived and managed the situation while the electricity department disconnected the power supply to retrieve the body. The deceased remained suspended from the tree until officials completed the procedure.
Family members described Rout as the sole breadwinner. His death left them devastated and financially helpless. Villagers demanded ₹25 lakh compensation and a job for one family member from the electricity department.
The tragic electrocution in Batgaon highlights the risks posed by exposed high-voltage lines near residential and agricultural areas. Locals urged authorities to inspect and secure overhead wires to prevent further accidents.
