Substandard cables flood Bogra markets

Substandard cables, which are flooding the markets in Bogra, expose townspeople to the risk of electrocution, burns, property damage and even short circuit, thanks to authorities' ignorance of the matter.

At least eight people died from electrocution caused by short circuit in the district in the last two years, Senior Assistant Police Superintendent Gaziur Rahman said, adding that the damage caused by fire went up to Tk three crore during the period.

During a recent visit to some markets in the town, this correspondent found a section of unscrupulous traders making the substandard electrical accessory, which appears to be look-alike of major brands like BRB, Paradise, Super Shine, MQ, BBS, Acme, Aftab Imperial and Evana.

"With similar names and looks of the popular brands, people tend to get confused. Cheaper prices play a big role here," said Executive Engineer of Bogra Power Development Board (PDB) Dewan Abu Hena Mostafa Kamal.

However, Md Al-Amin Sarkar, manager of BRB Cables in Bogra, said there is no way to cheat the customers as the company recently offered 20 percent discount on the item.  

Some dishonest cable traders of Khan market, Shahir Uddin market, BRTC market, Nodibangla market and other markets in the town continue cheating the buyers by selling old and used cables purchased from Chittagong, alleged Dinesh Roy, a customer of Railway market.

Refuting the allegation, Manik Ratan, cable trader of BRTC market, said they bought the cables from ships in the port city.

Inspector of Bogra Fire Service and Civil Defense Bazlur Rashid Titu said at least 870 fire incidents at business centres, markets, shops, houses, mills and factories occurred due to short circuit in the last two years.

Old and substandard cables can cause fires, said the PDB engineer.

Punitive action will be taken against those responsible for the offence after getting complaint in this regard, said the police official.