Power cuts to prevent short-circuit in wheat fields

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, April 20

To prevent accidental fires in wheat fields during the harvesting season, the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) has started imposing power cuts in rural areas during the daytime. The decision has been taken keeping in view fire incidents in the past.

PSPCL officials said, "Power in rural areas is disconnected at around 8 am before the temperature increases and is restored in the evening after the sun sets. During high temperature, even a meagre spark can cause a fire.”

A resident from the rural area said focus should be diverted towards fixation of dangling wires which cause short-circuits. “In this hot weather, the electricity is required for many works. Businesses in rural areas are affected by the power cuts,” he said.

The accidental fires during wheat harvesting season are reported frequently. The friction of iron parts in agricultural machinery, especially straw reapers are also a known cause for such fires. Hardly three days ago, wheat on 12 acres in Tarn Taran was gutted due to fire caused by a burning cigarette butt.

Agriculture Engineer Ranbir Singh Pannu said farmers should avoid using straw reapers to make hay till farmers in their neighbourhood have harvested the crop. “The friction in heavy machinery can cause fire, especially when the parts are heated up,” he said.

Paramjit Singh Khaira, Chief Engineer, PSPCL, said efforts were being made to avoid fire caused by short-circuits. People should cooperate with the department as fires in wheat fields spread far in short time and cause huge damage, he added.