Ganesh idol immersion turns tragic in Konark; youth electrocuted, 3 injured

Festivities turned tragic during a Ganesh idol immersion procession at Dalimbagorada in Konark when a DJ truck came in contact with an 11KV high-tension power line, leaving three people injured, one of them critically.

According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred when a youth climbed atop the DJ truck to record videos on his mobile phone. As the vehicle moved along the route, it came dangerously close to the overhead high-voltage line. The youth accidentally touched the wire and suffered a severe electric shock.

The powerful jolt also injured the DJ operator and two others nearby. All three were immediately rushed to the hospital for treatment. Among the injured, Chandrakant Nayak sustained critical burns and was shifted to Bhubaneswar for advanced medical care.

Local residents expressed shock over the incident, pointing to the lack of proper safety measures during such processions. Police have begun a detailed investigation to determine if any negligence was involved.

This incident has once again raised questions about safety protocols during public celebrations, especially when vehicles and equipment are used in close proximity to high-tension power lines.