New Delhi: Nearly 130 people died after dust storm followed by rain hit several states in northern India on May 2 night.
In Uttar Pradesh, 75 people died — 46 of them in Agra alone. In neighboring Rajasthan, the figure was 39. Seven died in Telangana, four in Uttarakhand and two each in Jharkhand and Punjab.
The storm swept across Delhi too, but no loss or damages have been reported from the national capital.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted his condolences and said the states have been offered help to deal with the crisis.
“Saddened by the loss of lives due to dust storms in various parts of India. Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon. Have asked officials to coordinate with the respective state governments and work towards assisting those who have been affected,” Modi tweeted.
Agra bore the brunt of the storm, with 46 people dying in the district.
In eastern Rajasthan, Alwar, Dholpur and Bharatpur were the worst-affected districts. The maximum damage was reported from Bharatpur district, where 12 people died. As many as 205 people were wounded across Rajasthan.
The intense storm and lightning uprooted trees, snapped power cables and led to the collapse of many thatched houses. Most people who died, were sleeping when their roofs collapsed in the storm.
Dust storm and heavy rains hit Delhi as well on May 2 evening. The sudden gust of wind lasted for not more than a few minutes, but it was enough to derail airport operations. Fifteen flights, including two international flights, had to be diverted.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has asked officers to personally monitor the relief work and provide medical aid to affected. He also warned that no laxity will be tolerated on part of the officials.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje said the storm has been declared a disaster, and relief and rescue operations are being carried out in all three districts.
The chief ministers of both states have announced compensation of up to 400,000 rupees to the families of the deceased and.50,000 rupees for each of the injured.
More thunderstorms and strong winds are expected in Uttar Pradesh over the next two days, especially in the northern parts of the state, met officials have said.
Source: ndtv.com