Key Facts
Shimla, July 14, 2026: The Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board (HPSEB) employees' union has raised serious concerns over the lack of basic protective gear for field staff during the ongoing monsoon season. Union president Nitish Bhardwaj and general secretary Prashant Sharma stated that despite the monsoon being at its peak, the board has failed to provide rain suits, gum boots, and tools (T&P) to workers, putting their safety at risk.
Union's Grievances
In a press release, the union leaders expressed deep sorrow over the situation. "Monsoon season has started, but the board has not yet been able to provide rain suits, gum boots and T&P to field staff, which is a matter of great sorrow," they said. They demanded immediate supply of these essentials and action against officers who are negligent in their duties.
Demand for Recruitment and Pension
The union also urged the state government and board management to initiate permanent recruitment at the earliest. They pointed out that while the board's infrastructure is expanding, recruitment has been stalled, leading to excessive workload on existing employees. This has forced the board to rely on contractors, a practice the union strongly condemns.
Additionally, the union appealed to the Chief Minister to fulfill his commitment and start the recruitment process, as well as restore the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for board employees, ensuring they are not deprived of benefits enjoyed by other government staff.
Impact on Field Operations
The lack of protective gear and manpower shortage has led to accidents and difficulties in field operations. The union warned that if immediate steps are not taken, the safety of workers and the reliability of power supply could be compromised.
What Readers Should Know
- HPSEB field staff are working without rain suits and gum boots during monsoon.
- Union demands immediate supply of protective gear and recruitment.
- Action sought against negligent officers.
- Old Pension Scheme restoration demanded.
FAQ
Why is HPSEB staff protesting?
The staff union is protesting because the board has not provided rain suits, gum boots, and tools to field workers even after the monsoon started, endangering their safety.
What are the main demands of the union?
The union demands immediate supply of protective gear, permanent recruitment in the board, action against negligent officers, and restoration of the Old Pension Scheme.
Who are the union leaders?
The state president Nitish Bhardwaj and general secretary Prashant Sharma are leading the protest.