Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 8: Members of the Gujjar community today staged a protest and blocked the main road in Arnia area following the death of a buffalo due to electrocution. The agitating locals held the Power Development Department (PDD) responsible for alleged negligence that led to the tragic incident.
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According to locals, the buffalo belonging to a Gujjar family died on the spot after coming in contact with an iron electric pole that was reportedly carrying current due to a short-circuit. Enraged by the incident, the protestors gathered at the site, obstructed vehicular movement, and raised slogans against the PDD, demanding immediate action and accountability.
The community members demanded appropriate compensation for the affected family and called on the PDD to conduct a thorough survey of all iron electric poles in the area to detect and repair any faults. They expressed concern that such incidents have occurred multiple times in the past but no preventive measures were taken nor was any compensation provided to the victims.
Protesters warned that continued apathy could result in more such tragedies, affecting not just livestock but potentially human lives as well. They urged the authorities to treat the issue seriously and take immediate corrective steps.
The blockade was lifted after assurances from local officials to look into the matter and take up the issue with the concerned department. However, the community has stated that they will intensify their agitation if concrete action is not taken soon.
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