Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: The sixth edition of ‘Lineman Diwas’ was celebrated in the capital to acknowledge the tireless dedication and invaluable services of linemen and ground maintenance staff, whose contributions are critical to ensuring reliable electricity supply across the country.Around 250 linemen and supervisors from over 66 state and private power distribution and generation companies, along with transmission licensees across India, participated in the event. The gathering provided a platform to share experiences, discuss operational challenges in maintaining uninterrupted power supply, and exchange insights on safety practices while promoting collaborative learning.The programme commenced with the administration of a safety pledge, with participants affirming their commitment to follow safety practices and remain vigilant to protect themselves, their families and society at large.Officials said minister of state for power and new and renewable energy Shripad Yesso Naik, power secretary Pankaj Agarwal and CEA chairperson Ghanshyam Prasad were among the stakeholders from across the power sector who attended the event.Naik said Lineman Diwas, observed during National Safety Week, acknowledges the dedication of frontline power sector workers who ensure uninterrupted electricity supply across the country. He emphasised the need to strengthen workplace safety culture through consistent use of personal protective equipment, proper shutdown confirmation before undertaking maintenance work, and regular capacity building and training.He also highlighted that the adoption of modern technologies such as smart grids, real-time monitoring systems, AI-enabled predictive maintenance and drone-based inspections can help identify potential faults in advance and minimise risks to field personnel.Referring to linemen as the warriors of the power sector, Agarwal said that even during harsh weather and natural disasters, linemen step out to restore electricity and ensure continuity of power supply. Despite increasing automation in the sector, it is the linemen on the ground who ultimately restore systems and keep the network running, he added, while emphasising that all field personnel should be equipped with standardised safety kits and tools.He also urged power utilities to institutionalise safety awareness by making it mandatory to show a short safety video and conduct safety drills as part of the daily routine before the start of each shift.Prasad said a resilient and dependable power sector is a key pillar of a developed nation and acknowledged the tireless efforts of linemen who work in challenging conditions to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply.A special Lineman Geet dedicated to the courage and invaluable contribution of linemen was released during the event, while a ‘safety pocketbook’ containing essential safety guidelines and precautions for field operations was also launched.A safety awareness video highlighting risks associated with lightning and precautions for field personnel was also released, and high-performing discoms and linemen were felicitated with awards to recognise their efforts in keeping the power sector safe and secure.
