Overview The Tiruchi Railway Division of the Southern Railway has issued a public advisory emphasizing the extreme danger posed by Railway Overhead Equipment (OHE), which carries 25,000 volts . The warning follows two fatal electrocution incidents within the division in October 2025 , highlighting the critical need for public awareness and adherence to safety guidelines. Key Incidents October 6, 2025 Incident On October 6, 2025 , a 49-year-old man sustained severe burns after coming into contact with a high-tension overhead wire at Ulundurpet Goods Yard . He had climbed onto an empty goods train. Despite being rushed to the Government Hospital at Ulundurpet, he was declared dead. October 19, 2025 Incident On October 19, 2025 , a 16-year-old boy from Ulundurpet climbed onto a stationary tanker wagon at the same yard and contacted a live overhead wire. He suffered a severe electric shock and fell onto the track. He was initially treated at the Ulundurpet Government Hospital but was later referred to a private hospital in Chennai, where he succumbed to his injuries. Safety Guidelines Issued Following these tragic incidents, the Tiruchi Division has reinforced the following safety guidelines: Do not climb on locomotives, coaches, or wagons for photography or selfies. Never touch or approach electric wires, poles, or equipment. Avoid using umbrellas, especially those with metal parts, or carrying long metallic objects under OHE lines, particularly during rain or lightning. Do not throw any objects onto the wires from pedestrian overbridges or overbridges. Cutting or trimming of trees near OHE lines without permission from the Railways is strictly prohibited. Level Crossing Safety At level crossings, road users are advised to avoid traveling on top of vehicles or overloading goods carriers such as lorries and trucks. Height gauges have been installed at 4.75 metres above road level to indicate the maximum safe loading height. Exceeding these limits or carrying long metal poles or flag masts could result in fatal contact with live wires. Awareness Campaigns The Safety Branch and the Railway Protection Force (RPF) of the Tiruchi Division have been conducting regular awareness campaigns across towns and village panchayats. These campaigns cover various safety aspects, including: Safe herding of cattle to prevent runovers. The importance of crossing level gates only when open. The dangers of high-voltage OHE lines. UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to GS3: Infrastructure , specifically railway safety and disaster management. It also touches upon GS2: Government Policies related to public safety and awareness. Understanding the causes and preventive measures for railway accidents is crucial for Mains examination. Potential Questions Discuss the challenges in ensuring railway safety in India and suggest measures to mitigate risks. Evaluate the role of public awareness campaigns in preventing railway accidents.