Flagpole near high-voltage line caused arc that injured three teens

KUALA LUMPUR: An electrical arc caused by a flagpole coming too close to a high-voltage transmission line injured three teenagers during a religious procession in Alor Setar last night.

Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) said this was identified through preliminary investigations.

"We sympathise with the incident involving three members of the public and pray for the speedy recovery of all those receiving treatment.

"TNB will extend its full cooperation to the authorities to assist in further investigations into the incident," it said in a statement.

TNB reminded the public to keep tall objects, including flagpoles, at a safe distance from power lines to prevent similar incidents.

It was reported that the three victims, comprising two 17-year-olds and a 16-year-old, were rushed to Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital in Alor Setar following the incident around 9pm and admitted to the emergency red zone for intensive care.

Mergong Vegetable Temple Association secretary Chah Boon Chuan said thousands of devotees were marching along the main road when gusty winds during light rain blew a large flag towards the live cables.

One youth was holding the bamboo pole while two others were walking beside him when the flashover struck.

Chah said this was the first time such an accident had occurred during the annual event, which prompted public concern after viral videos showed the victims collapsed on the road.