Aazan Manzoor
Budgam, Jan 24 (JKNS): In the biting cold of Kashmir’s unforgiving winter, when snow-laden villages plunge into darkness due to power outages, it is the linemen of the Power Development Department who climb poles and brave life-threatening risks to restore electricity.
One such unsung hero, Bashir Ahmad Dar, a 57-year-old lineman from Mazhama Magam in Budgam, is now battling for his life at SMHS Hospital Srinagar after sustaining severe electrical burn injuries while on duty, officials said.
According to details gathered by news agency JKNS, Bashir Ahmad received a high-voltage electric shock while repairing a transmission line at Kanihama Batpora, Magam, on Saturday.
He was initially rushed to Sub-District Hospital Magam and later referred to SMHS Srinagar due to his critical condition. Hospital authorities confirmed that he continues to remain in a critical state.
“He is undergoing treatment in the ICU and has sustained multiple serious injuries. His condition remains critical,” a senior doctor at SMHS told JKNS.
Coworkers described Bashir Ahmad as a dedicated and fearless lineman, known for his unwavering commitment to duty.
“He never thought about his own safety. His first concern was always restoring power for people, no matter the time or weather,” said a colleague, visibly shaken.
For years, linemen like Bashir Ahmad have been working under perilous conditions, often on contractual wages, with limited safety gear and minimal insurance coverage. Despite the life-threatening risks especially during winter many continue to work silently, without recognition or adequate protection.
A local resident from Magam said, “Every winter, we hear about linemen getting electrocuted or seriously injured. They risk their lives so that we can stay warm. They deserve dignity, safety, and proper recognition.”
The sight of linemen scaling electric poles amid snowstorms and freezing winds remains a stark reminder of the unseen hands that keep Kashmir’s homes and hospitals illuminated.
Bashir Ahmad’s struggle for survival mirrors the quiet sacrifices of hundreds of power workers across the Valley.
As he continues to fight for life, voices are growing louder for better safety measures, insurance coverage, and job security for these essential workers so that their courage is matched with care.
Meanwhile, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), KPDCL praised the resilience of its field staff, writing, “When winter tests the limits, dedication answers back. Restoration work is underway at multiple locations across the Valley. Teams are on the ground, braving snow and heights because service doesn’t pause for weather.” (JKNS)
