Pre-monsoon showers trigger CESC alert over power safety risks

With pre-monsoon showers and gusty winds intensifying across southern Karnataka, the Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC) has gone on alert and issued a public advisory warning residents and farmers against possible electrical hazards during the rainy season.

CESC said it has taken precautionary measures across its jurisdiction covering Mysuru, Kodagu, Chamarajanagar, Hassan and Mandya districts following the onset of pre-monsoon rains, which could increase the risk of snapped power lines, damaged electric poles and transformer-related incidents.

The advisory comes amid increasing pre-monsoon activity in the region, raising concerns over rain-related power disruptions and electrical accidents.

In a press release issued on Friday, CESC officials said field staff and local officers have been placed on alert to respond swiftly to power disruptions, accidents and emergency situations triggered by heavy rain and strong winds. The utility said it was fully prepared to tackle rain-related contingencies while ensuring uninterrupted power supply to consumers.

CESC urged the public to immediately report incidents such as fallen electric wires, damaged poles and transformer faults through its 24×7 helpline 1912, by sending photographs via WhatsApp to 9448991912, or by informing local CESC officials.

District-wise emergency helpline numbers have also been issued - Kodagu (18005990061), Mysuru (18005990062), Chamarajanagar (18005990063), Hassan (18005990065) and Mandya (18005990066), the release added.

The CESC also cautioned people against touching snapped electrical wires lying on roadsides, using electric poles or wires for drying clothes, or tying cattle near transformers and electrical installations. Residents were also advised to stay away from transformers during heavy rain and strong winds.

For farmers, special safety instructions were issued, advising them not to operate pump sets with wet hands, avoid using electrical equipment in waterlogged areas, switch off electrical appliances during rain, and maintain a safe distance from electric poles and transformers located in agricultural fields.