Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – In a tragic incident that has left the community in shock, seven employees of The Gambia’s National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) lost their lives when an aging electrical pole collapsed and made contact with high-voltage wires, resulting in immediate electrocution. The accident took place in Kerr Gallo, a village in the North Bank Region, while the workers were in the process of replacing the deteriorating pole.

According to police officials in Barra, the workers were struck by an intense electric shock when the pole came into contact with live wires, a hazard they could not escape. “This is a horrific incident, and we extend our deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives,” a police official stated.

The spokesperson confirmed that an investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the collapse and identify any lapses in safety protocol.

NAWEC, which is responsible for utility services nationwide, has faced scrutiny in recent years for the aging infrastructure of its electrical grid. The tragic deaths have further ignited a conversation around worker safety in high-risk professions, particularly those within the power sector. This incident raises important questions about the condition of utility infrastructure and the standards of safety training and equipment provided to NAWEC staff.

Community members and families of the victims are demanding accountability, voicing concerns over the equipment and procedural safety standards. The bereaved families are calling for a thorough and transparent inquiry to prevent future occurrences of such preventable accidents.

The Ministry of Energy and NAWEC have pledged their full cooperation with the police investigation and plan to conduct an internal review.

The Gambia Energy Restoration and Modernization Project, run by NAWEC, had segments intended to improve the nation’s infrastructure, and assess safety regulations and ways to upgrade the electrical grid to meet stricter safety standards.

This tragic incident is a solemn reminder of the dangers faced by workers in the energy sector and underscores the urgent need for improved safety measures.

The outcome of the investigation could hopefully lead to significant reforms aimed at safeguarding the lives of those tasked with managing the country’s power infrastructure.

The Gambia Journal sends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, NAWEC’s management, and the entire country.