President to honor Taipower worker who died during storm repairs

Taipei, July 22 (CNA) President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) will issue a posthumous commendation to Taipower technician Lee Yuan-han (李元瀚), who died after being critically electrocuted while repairing power lines damaged by Typhoon Danas, the Presidential Office said Tuesday.

Lee, 36, received a high-voltage electric shock estimated at 6,000 volts that entered through his left hand and exited through his right hand while making emergency repairs on a power line in Chiayi County's Yizhu Township on July 15.

He was transported to Chi Mei Hospital's Liuying branch in Tainan and placed on ECMO life support. Although his heart and lung functions initially stabilized, his condition did not improve, and on Tuesday, his family chose to withdraw life support and donate his organs.

An investigation later found that Lee was not wearing insulated gloves at the time of the accident, in violation of safety protocols.

Work at the site was suspended, and Taipower could face a fine of up to NT$300,000 (US$10,212) under the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

In a statement, Lai expressed deep sorrow over Lee's passing, describing him as a dedicated professional who spent more than a decade at Taipower mentoring younger employees and embodying the values of commitment and resilience.

Lai also commended the family's decision to donate Lee's organs, saying that Lee's love for Taiwan would continue in a new form.

Typhoon Danas, which hit Taiwan on July 6 and 7, toppled over 2,400 power poles and left more than 1 million households without electricity.

Ongoing heavy rains in southern Taiwan have slowed restoration efforts, with hundreds of homes still without power days after the storm.