Cable, Internet operators give Rlys high tension

Place unauthorised cable wires across high-voltage overhead cable structures, which can disrupt train service and harm commuters

Place unauthorised cable wires across high-voltage overhead cable structures, which can disrupt train service and harm commuters

Apart from keeping a check on troublesome commuters who cross tracks or travel atop boggies, Central Railway authorities have a high-tension job at hand to stop Internet service providers and cable operators who put unauthorised wires across overhead cable (OHE) structures.
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The high-tension OHE wires can snap if they come in contact with cable wires, disrupt trains and harm commuters. Railway authorities have already identified 38 such points across suburban stations.
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Life lost

UNPLUGGED: The Byculla RPF arrested nine men, who had laid cables over an OHE structure, on July 29

Three weeks ago, a commuter on the Western line lost his life after an OHE cable snapped and hit him.

Taking a cue from the incident, the Byculla RPF arrested nine men, who had laid cables over an OHE structure under the S-Bridge and another that passed under the FOB near the fruit market near Byculla station on July 29.

"Earlier, we had cut off the cable wires, but they were reconnected and we had to post RPF constables at the spot.

Employees of an Internet service provider were caught red-handed when they came to the spot at night," said Senior Divisional Security Commissioner SC Parhi.

According to officials, the cables are placed close to Footover Bridges above the OHE structures through which 1,500-volt OHE wires pass.u00a0

CPRO Srinivas Mudgerikar of CR said, "We have made arrests as a precautionary measure."

Arrested

The nine employees arrested yesterday could face imprisonment up to two years and a fine of Rs 2,000 under section 154 of the RPF Act for endangering the safety of train commuters The RPF officials have also seized property worth Rs 4.5 lakh, which includes two cars, 80m cable, cable-testing equipment and digital generators.