Government emphasizes strengthening safety culture in power sector at Lineman Diwas

New Delhi: The sixth edition of ‘Lineman Diwas’ was held in the national capital to recognize the tireless dedication and valuable services of linemen and ground maintenance personnel, whose contributions are crucial in ensuring reliable power supply across the country.The event was attended by around 250 line workers and supervisors from over 66 state-owned and private distribution and generation companies, as well as transmission licensees from across India. This gathering provides a platform to share experiences, discuss the operational challenges of maintaining uninterrupted power, and exchange insights on safety practices while promoting collaborative learning.The program begins with the management of safety commitments, where participants affirm their commitment to follow safety practices and remain vigilant to protect themselves, their families and society at large.Officials said the event was attended by stakeholders from the power industry including Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy Shripad Yesso Naik, Power Minister Pankaj Agarwal and CEA Chairman Ghanshyam Prasad.Naik said Lineman Diwas, who was observed during the National Security Week, recognized the dedication of frontline power department workers who ensure uninterrupted power supply across the country. He stressed the need to strengthen workplace safety culture through consistent use of personal protective equipment, proper closure confirmation before carrying out maintenance work, and regular capacity building and training.He also emphasized that the use of modern technologies such as smart grids, real-time monitoring systems, artificial intelligence predictive maintenance and drone inspections can help detect potential faults in advance and minimize risks to on-site personnel.Calling linemen the warriors of the power sector, Agarwal said linemen come forward to restore power and ensure continuity of power supply even during severe weather and natural disasters. He added that despite increasing automation in the sector, it is line maintenance personnel in the field who will ultimately restore systems and keep the network running, while emphasizing that all field personnel should be equipped with standardized security suites and tools.He also urged power companies to institutionalize safety awareness, make short safety videos mandatory and conduct safety drills before the start of each shift as part of their daily routine.Prasad said a resilient and reliable power sector is a key pillar of developed countries and acknowledged the tireless efforts of linemen working in challenging conditions to ensure uninterrupted power supply.A special lineman Geet was also released during the event to recognize the courage and valuable contribution of linemen, while a ‘Safety Manual’ containing basic safety guidelines and precautions for field operations was also launched.A safety awareness video was also released highlighting lightning-related risks and precautions for field personnel, and outstanding electrical distributors and linemen were recognized for their efforts in keeping the power sector safe.