In 2023, over 18,000 deaths occurred due to electrical accidents in India, with a rising fatality rate. Most incidents in 2025 were caused by accidental contact with live wires, highlighting safety lapses in power distribution.
Overview of the Issue
- Electrocution is the leading cause of electrical deaths, followed by lightning strikes and electrical fires.
- India’s electrical fatality rate has steadily increased over the years.
- In 2023, 1 death per lakh population was recorded due to electrical accidents.
- In contrast, developed countries like Japan, Australia, and the U.S. report rates between 0.01 and 0.04.
State-Level Variation
- The four-year average fatality rate varies widely across States.
- Some States report as low as 0.2 deaths per lakh, while others reach 2.6 deaths per lakh.
- Indicates uneven safety standards and infrastructure across regions.
Urban Trends
- Until 2013, data from 50+ megacities was available.
- In 2013:
- 13% of total electrical deaths occurred in megacities.
- Electrical fires caused ~25% of urban deaths.
- Electric shocks accounted for ~11%.
Distribution Network Risks
- In 2025, 61% of accidents happened in distribution systems, and 30% in non-industrial consumer areas.
- Data from DISCOMs shows Over 90% of victims were from the general public which Indicates poor safety enforcement and lack of public awareness.
Key Causes of Accidents
- Accidental contact with live wires: 35% of cases.
- Negligence or lack of supervision: 15% of cases.
- Reflects inadequate safety protocols and insufficient monitoring by DISCOMs.
Conclusion
The rising trend in electrical fatalities calls for urgent reforms in safety standards, especially in distribution networks. Public awareness, strict enforcement, and DISCOM accountability are crucial to reduce such preventable deaths.
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