35 workers killed in 5 years at Kishtwar hydropower projects
Jammu: At least 35 workers have been killed and three others seriously injured at various hydropower projects in Kishtwar district of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir over the last five years.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Indian government informed the Rajya Sabha that the fatalities occurred at Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar and Ratle projects. Pakal Dul recorded the highest deaths at 16, followed by Kiru with 8, Ratle with 6 and Kwar with 5.
The Modi government said compensation has been paid. It added that payments in two Pakal Dul and three Kwar cases are being processed.
The government admitted “minor non-compliances” in accidents. However, the toll of 35 deaths in just five years exposes glaring lapses in safety measures at the Kishtwar projects.
Workers’ groups say poor implementation of safety protocols, lack of proper equipment, inadequate training and pressure to meet deadlines have turned the hydropower sites into death traps for laborers.
