Control rooms set up to check fire incidents during harvesting

Punjab Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO shared an important public safety initiative undertaken by the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) here on Sunday. He said with the wheat harvesting season underway, the risk of fire incidents due to electrical sparks increases significantly. To tackle such incidents, PSPCL has established special control rooms to promptly respond to any such hazards.

The minister appealed to the public to immediately report any loose or sparking electrical wires, especially near agricultural fields, by calling the helpline numbers 9646106835 and 9646106836. People can also send photographs of such risky electrical infrastructure through WhatsApp on the same numbers to ensure swift action.

Addressing mediapersons, Harbhajan Singh ETO urged farmers to take extra precautions around the transformers located in or near their fields. “We have invested hard work, money and time into the wheat crop. A small mistake could result in significant loss. Before harvesting, the area around transformers should either be kept wet or cleared of wheat stubble to prevent it from catching fire due to potential sparking.

Besides, complaints can also be registered by dialing 1912 or by visiting the nearest power substation and recording the issue in the complaint register. “We assure that every reported concern will be addressed,” he said.

The minister also strongly cautioned farmers against attempting to repair electric lines on their own or trying to lift low-hanging wires using sticks while sitting on tractors or combines, as it poses serious life-threatening risks.

On the occasion of Baisakhi, Harbhajan Singh ETO visited Baba Handal Sahib at Jandiala Guru to offer prayers and wished for peace, prosperity and the well-being of all Punjabis.