At least three newly installed electric poles on G. Corner and Ponmalaipatti road were left tilting on Friday, bringing into focus safety standards while replacing old electric poles with new ones.
The incident occurred when the city experienced thunderous shower on Friday night. The poles, which were installed a few months ago as part of the ongoing Restructured Accelerated Power Development and Reforms Programme, almost fell to the ground because of the soil erosion during the rain.
Soon, the power supply was disrupted in the area. On information, the Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (Tangedco) officials and linemen reached the spot around midnight and partially restored the power supply at Ponnmalaipatti. Power supply was restored in all areas after the poles were reinstalled with concrete foundation on Saturday.
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Although the incident did not lead to any loss of life, local residents complained that standard procedures were not been followed while erecting new electric poles. They were simply planted by digging the ground for a few feet. Had they planted the poles by laying concrete foundation, the poles could not have starting leaning for a rain, the residents alleged.
When the issue was brought to the attention, a senior official of Tangedco said that all standard procedures were followed while erecting new poles. The poles might lean or fall during fury of the nature. However, more precautions would be followed while installing new electric poles, he said.