NAROWAL: Three officials of Gujranwala Electric Power Company were suspended from service after an eight-year-old boy playing on the roof of his house died of electrocution in Shakargarh by 11Kv electric wires.

Reports said Abdul Basit, son of Zahid Ali and a resident of Mohalla Ansarian, was playing on the roof of his house when he came into contact with 11kV electric wires. The boy died on the spot.

The incident sparked outrage among family members and local residents, who staged a strong protest against Gepco’s alleged negligence.

Locals, including Abbas Ali and Zulqarnain Haider, claimed they had filed numerous requests to have the dangerous lines relocated.

They further alleged that Gepco employees had previously demanded bribes to move the wires.A press release from the Gepco sub-divisional officer claimed that the child was electrocuted while flying a kite.

Gepco alleged that the house was built directly under the 11 kV lines without a no objection certificate (NOC).

The company said the landlord had been informed of the risks.

The Gepco officials claimed that while a plan to install new poles was approved, local residents had actively resisted the installation process.

Taking notice of the incident, the Gepco CEO suspended three officers for misconduct and ordered them to report to the Gujranwala headquarters.

The suspended officials are Yasir Arafat, EXEN Operations, Shakargarh, Abdul Atiq, SDO Operations, Dilawar Hussain, line superintendent and field incharge, Sub-Division No. 1.

The affected family and locals have strongly protested against Gepco and demanded that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif take immediate notice of the situation.

Published in Dawn, April 21st, 2026