A devastating fire triggered by a short circuit and sparking in the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd (MSEDCL) three-phase power line has caused significant financial loss to a local farmer in Savangi Vyavahare, Kalmeshwar Taluka. The blaze erupted due to technical faults in the overhead power lines passing through the field belonging to Mangala Sudhakarrao Dhage. The fire spread rapidly, completely destroying 2 acres of ready-to-harvest wheat; and 100 orange trees. 5 to 7 tonnes of estimated orange yield was lost in the incident. Initial assessments suggest a total financial loss of approximately Rs 1,70,000.

 

The land was being cultivated on a contract basis by Sunil Nande, a resident of Mohgaon. Nande had invested nearly Rs 80,000 to Rs 90,000 and eight months of rigorous physical labor to raise the crop. However, the fire occurred just as the harvest was about to begin, washing away his entire investment and hard work in a matter of moments. The incident has sparked widespread sympathy and anger in the region. Local residents have pointed to the alleged negligence of the electricity department regarding the maintenance of power lines. Formal memorandums have been submitted to concerned authorities demanding an immediate Panchnama and fair compensation. “The family is facing a severe financial crisis. We demand that the administration takes this matter seriously and provides immediate relief to the affected farmer,” stated a local village representative. The local community continues to urge the administration to take swift action to prevent such recurring technical mishaps.