Rangblang, South West Khasi Hills District – In a tragic incident today, 19-year-old Jamewellson Thongni lost his life after reportedly coming into contact with an exposed electrical pole near his home in Rangblang village. The accident occurred on the morning of October 30, 2024, when local children discovered Thongni while gathering firewood nearby. They promptly informed the village authorities.
Thongni was rushed to Civil Hospital in Nongstoin, but he was declared dead upon arrival, deeply shocking the community. Village authorities, represented by Secretary Bokstone Thongni, expressed grief and frustration, criticizing MePDCL’s Mawkyrwat office for failing to address multiple reports about deteriorating electrical poles in the area.
According to residents, repeated complaints were filed about damaged and leaning power poles, but no action was taken, leading to today’s fatal incident. Villagers noted that animals such as porcupines and rodents had also been found electrocuted at the base of the same pole where Thongni was injured, highlighting the danger.
The village authorities have urged MePDCL and higher officials to investigate and take immediate action to prevent further loss of life due to negligence.
