Mysuru: With pre-monsoon showers and gusty winds intensifying across southern Karnataka, the Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC) has gone on alert and issued a public advisory warning residents and farmers about possible electrical hazards during the rainy season. The utility has also activated precautionary measures across its service regions to minimise risks and ensure prompt responses to rain-related emergencies.
The advisory comes amid increasing weather activity in several districts, with heavy rain and strong winds expected to increase the possibility of snapped power lines, damaged electric poles and transformer-related incidents.
CESC activates emergency preparedness measures
According to CESC officials, precautionary steps have been implemented across its jurisdiction, which covers Mysuru, Kodagu, Chamarajanagar, Hassan and Mandya districts.
The utility stated that field staff and local officials have been placed on alert to respond quickly to emergency situations, power disruptions and infrastructure damage caused by adverse weather conditions.
In a press release issued on Friday, officials said teams have been instructed to maintain readiness to handle rain-related incidents while ensuring that power supply disruptions are addressed as quickly as possible.
Authorities said the alert system has been activated considering the increased intensity of pre-monsoon conditions across southern Karnataka.
Public urged to report electrical hazards
CESC has appealed to the public to immediately inform authorities if they come across electrical hazards such as fallen power lines, damaged poles or transformer faults.
Residents have been asked to use the utility’s 24-hour helpline number 1912 for emergency reporting.
People can also send photographs of damaged infrastructure through WhatsApp to 9448991912 or contact local CESC officials directly.
District-specific emergency helpline numbers have also been issued for faster responses:
- Kodagu – 18005990061
- Mysuru – 18005990062
- Chamarajanagar – 18005990063
- Hassan – 18005990065
- Mandya – 18005990066
Officials said immediate reporting can help prevent accidents and enable rapid action by field teams.
Safety guidelines for residents
The electricity utility also issued several precautionary measures aimed at preventing accidents during the rainy season.
Residents have been advised not to touch snapped electrical wires lying on roadsides or open areas, even if they appear inactive.
CESC also warned against using electric poles or power lines for drying clothes, as such practices could pose serious risks.
The advisory additionally instructed people not to tie cattle near transformers, electric poles or other electrical installations.
During heavy rain and strong winds, residents have been advised to maintain a safe distance from transformers and electrical equipment.
Farmers receive special instructions
CESC issued separate safety guidelines specifically for farmers due to the increased use of electrical equipment in agricultural areas.
Farmers have been advised not to operate pump sets with wet hands and to avoid using electrical devices in waterlogged areas.
Authorities also urged them to switch off electrical appliances during rain and maintain a safe distance from electric poles and transformers situated within agricultural fields.
Officials stressed that electrical safety becomes particularly important during the monsoon season because water accumulation and moisture significantly increase the risk of electric shocks and related accidents.
The advisory is intended to create awareness and reduce preventable incidents as weather conditions continue to intensify across the region. Authorities have urged residents and farmers to remain cautious and immediately report any electrical hazards to avoid loss of life and property damage.