Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 17 (PTI): In a proactive move to address safety concerns, Kerala's Electricity Minister, K Krishnankutty, announced that the state government is investigating the use of cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to mitigate fatal accidents caused by snapped live wires.
The minister highlighted in the legislative assembly that the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) is diligently conducting thorough line patrols aimed at identifying and rectifying potential safety hazards. These remarks were made in response to the opposition UDF's concerns regarding a spate of electrocution incidents across the state.
Emphasizing safety, Krishnankutty noted that special inspections are underway in schools and hospitals, with KSEB spearheading efforts to trim trees that could potentially interfere with power lines during adverse weather conditions like heavy rains and winds.
Among the various safety measures being deployed by KSEB, Minister Krishnankutty mentioned the integration of modern technologies, including the imminent rollout of smart meters, which are expected to significantly curb such dangers.
Furthermore, the development of a new software tool to provide early warnings of potential hazards was also highlighted by the minister. A specialized panel, featuring experts from IIT Palakkad, the Electrical Inspectorate, and KSEB officials, is currently studying the application of artificial intelligence in reducing electrocution and related accidents in Kerala.
However, the minister dismissed the opposition's claims of frequent occurrences of these incidents, clarifying that most incidents happened at consumer homes, typically when using ladders or sticks.
He pointed out that the months of May through August record the highest number of electrocution cases due to heavy rains and winds causing trees to topple, which is attributed to the state's high line-land ratio.
Recent instances of electrocution, such as the tragic death of a 19-year-old in Nedumangadu, Thiruvananthapuram, after encountering a snapped live wire, have underscored the urgency of addressing these safety issues. Additionally, the electrocution of an eighth-grade student at an aided school in Thevalakkara, Kollam district, has sparked political debate within the state.
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