Two Farmers Die After Electrocution in Paddy Field

Two farmers were killed after being electrocuted by a live electricity cable that had reportedly snapped and fallen into a paddy field while they were planting rice seedlings in Chattogram’s Fatikchhari Upazila.

The fatal accident occurred at around 3:00 pm on Sunday (19 July) in the Fatikchhari Beel area of Ward No. 1 under Paindong Union. The sudden tragedy has left the local community in mourning, as the victims were well known in their village and earned their livelihoods through farming.

The deceased were identified as Yunus, 45, son of Mahbub Alam, and Hashem, 48, son of Abul Kashem. Both men were residents of Mirer Khil village in Bhujpur Union and were engaged in seasonal agricultural work.

According to local residents, the two farmers were planting paddy seedlings in a waterlogged field when an overhead power line unexpectedly snapped and fell into the cultivated land. The live wire came into contact with the wet field, causing both men to suffer a fatal electric shock. They died at the scene before anyone could reach them with assistance.

News of the incident spread quickly, drawing villagers to the site. After the area was secured, the bodies were recovered and later handed over to the victims’ families. The deaths have shocked residents, many of whom described the incident as a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers posed by damaged electrical infrastructure, particularly during the rainy season.

Officer-in-Charge Robiul Alam Khan of Fatikchhari Police Station said police would inspect the scene and complete the necessary legal procedures in connection with the incident.

Bhujpur Police Station Officer-in-Charge Bipul Chandra De said that although the accident occurred within the jurisdiction of Fatikchhari Police Station, both victims were residents of Bhujpur. Their bodies have been taken to their homes, and the required legal formalities will be carried out in accordance with the law.

A representative of the local Rural Electrification Board said that, immediately after receiving information about the accident, a technical team was dispatched to the area to disconnect the electricity supply and eliminate any further risk to the public. The official added that an investigation had been launched to determine why the power line had snapped. If negligence, technical failure or any other lapse is identified during the inquiry, appropriate action will be taken.

The official also urged the public to exercise extreme caution whenever a fallen electricity cable is spotted, particularly during adverse weather conditions. People should avoid approaching or touching any suspected live wire and instead report the matter immediately to the electricity authorities. Prompt reporting and public awareness, officials say, are essential to preventing similar fatal accidents in the future.

The incident highlights the heightened risk faced by agricultural workers during the monsoon season, when waterlogged fields can greatly increase the danger of electrocution if electrical lines become damaged. Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the accident while reviewing whether additional safety measures are needed to reduce such risks.