Barmer, June 23, 2019: At least 14 people were killed and around 50 others injured when a tent in Rajasthan’s Barmer collapsed following heavy rain and thunderstorm.

Those injured have been taken to hospital where the condition of several of them remains critical.

The incident took place at a school ground in Barmer district’s Jasol village, around 500 southwest of the state capital of Jaipur, where hundreds had gathered for a religious event.

District official have arrived at the spot and those injured have been taken to a hospital in the district.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted on the incident. “Collapse of a ‘Pandaal’ in Rajasthan’s Barmer is unfortunate. My thoughts are with the bereaved families and I wish the injured a quick recovery.”

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said that local authorities have been asked to probe the incident. “Relief and rescue work is being carried out by the local administration. The concerned authorities have been asked to investigate the incident, ensure speedy treatment of the injured and provide all possible assistance to those affected and their families,” he tweeted in Hindi.

“The incident in Jasol, Barmer during Ram Katha is very sad and unfortunate. I pray for those lost their lives and strength to their bereaved families. I wish speedy recovery to the injured,” he said.

Senior BJP leader and former Chief Minister of Rajasthan Vasundhara Raje also tweeted her condolences. “Saddened to hear the news of the death of more than a dozen people in the Pandal accident during Ram Katha in Barmer’s Jasol. I pray for those who lost their lives and strength to their bereaved families in this hour of grief,” she tweeted in Hindi.

She further asked BJP workers to extend all possible help to those injured and their families. Raje also called on the state government to extend financial assistance to the families of those who were killed and injured in the incident.

Source: ndtv.com