This Sankranti, discom officials warn against flying kites near electrical lines, transformers

TGSPDCL issues guidelines urging people to fly kites in open areas, not to use metallic thread or metal-reinforced strings

Hyderabad: The Telangana State Southern Power Distribution Company Limited (TGSPDCL) officials have cautioned people against flying kites near electrical lines and distribution transformers, stating that it was a dangerous practice and could cause accidents apart from disrupting power supply.

In a statement, TGSPDCL chairman and managing director Musharraf Faruqui asked kite flyers to keep away from all overhead wires and DTRs, especially power lines.

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He issued guidelines which included flying kites in open areas in dry weather, avoiding buildings, streets and highways, keeping away from electrical poles/towers, not trying to retrieve lost kites, using only cotton, linen or nylon strings, and never using metallic thread or metal-reinforced strings.

He said metal-coated threads (manja) was a good conductor of electricity and may cause electric shock when it touches or comes close to an electric line.

“Use dry kite string when flying kites and never use wire. Stay away from utility poles, supporting wires and transformers — do not climb on any electrical equipment. Be vigilant with children while flying kites on your premises. Don’t allow children to touch a snapped and broken conductor,” he said.

The statement also asked the public to contact the Electricity Department on 1912, the nearest electricity office, mobile app or website: www.tgsouthernpower.org in case of any emergency or report any unsafe situation/untoward incident related to electrical networks.