Residents of Manpur village in Rasulpur Union, Naogaon, are living in constant fear as an electricity pole now stands in the middle of a water-filled pond where villagers and livestock bathe daily. Locals warn that a strong wind or storm could cause the pole to collapse at any time, leading to a serious accident.
Despite the pond being re-excavated a year ago, villagers allege that the Rural Electrification Board has yet to take any action to secure or relocate the pole. Civil society members have blamed local electricity officials for negligence and lack of foresight.
During a recent visit, it was found that the pond, covering 2.74 acres, had its banks cut during renovation, which loosened the soil supporting the pole. Villagers say they now avoid the area out of fear.
Local resident Rekha Begum said, “Before the renovation, the pole was safely on the bank. Now it’s in the water we’re terrified when washing or bathing nearby. Children also swim there, which makes it even more dangerous.”
Pond owner Shamsuzzoha confirmed he had informed the Rural Electricity Office during the excavation, but no measures were taken.
Mejbaul Haque, Deputy General Manager of the Niamatpur Palli Bidyut Samity, said he was unaware of the issue but assured that “action will be taken once a written complaint is received.”
