Chennai officials questioned over woman's electrocution death

Police in Chennai have summoned assistant engineers from the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) and Tangedco for questioning following the death of 59-year-old M Kalavathi due to electrocution. The woman was found unconscious in stagnant water in a pit near Anna Nagar 5th Avenue on August 23.

Investigators have altered the case to include negligence. Authorities are examining whether lapses in the execution or supervision of stormwater drain works contributed to the incident. While reports suggested both agencies were aware of damaged high-tension and low-tension cables in the area, officials from both departments denied that the specific damaged cables were located at the site of the death.

Corporation officials stated that while stormwater drain works were completed 40 days prior, power leakage may have occurred due to road wear and tear. Officials noted that cables had been insulated as a temporary measure while awaiting permanent replacement.