Bandipora residents fear tragedy as old electric poles tilt dangerously

In another concern raised by locals, residents of Plan Bandipora have warned that ageing and dilapidated electric poles in the main town pose a grave risk, alleging that despite installing new poles and transmission lines years ago, the old concrete structures were never removed.

Residents said the Power Department continues to run live lines through obsolete poles that have lost load-bearing strength and are now leaning dangerously over pedestrian routes.

They claim repeated complaints have yielded only assurances, with no action on the ground. “People, including children, pass these streets daily. These poles could fall anytime—who will take responsibility if tragedy strikes?” said a resident.

Locals said they are exhausted from repeated appeals and urged the department to immediately dismantle unsafe poles before an accident forces action in hindsight.