IS INDIA SAFELY WIRED?

The cable and wire manufacturing industry in India is currently facing a critical challenge concerning safety in its operations. According to NCRB data, almost 1.1 lakh people have died due to electrocution from 2011 to 2020, which translates to nearly 30 fatalities every day. Recognising the gravity of the situation, prominent companies within the industry are actively transforming their systems to prioritise safety across various aspects, including manufacturing processes, consumer safety, and environmental well-being. These efforts aim to establish India as a secure and fire-safe nation

THE RISING CONCERN FOR SAFETY IN INDIA 

The concern for safety in India is on the rise due to an alarming increase in electric hazards, such as short circuits and fire accidents, which have resulted in a significant number of fatalities. Vivek Yadav, Executive Vice President, Havells India, shared distressing statistics, stating, “Electrocution accidents is one of the top reasons for death occurring commonly in India. As per the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) statistics, at least 3,000 people die every year in electric power-related accidents in the country.”

Shreegopal Kabra, Managing Director, RR  Kabel, identified the unprecedented surge in electricity demand due to rapid urbanisation, infrastructure development, and industrial growth as one major the reasons behind these accidents. This surge exerts strain on electrical systems, increasing the likelihood of overloads and short circuits. Bhushan Sawhney, Executive President and Chief Business Officer, Polycab India Ltd., highlighted the risks associated with this situation. He explained that inadequate power generation leads to unstable power supply and voltage fluctuations, which can cause sudden spikes or drops in voltage. This, in turn, stresses electrical equipment, distribution infrastructure, and escalates the risk of short circuits.