Lightning strike kills over 50 in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan

As many as 37 people, including women and children, were killed as of Sunday in lightning strikes in several parts of Uttar Pradesh. With 14 deaths, Prayagraj reported the highest number of casualties due to lightning strike, reported India Today. 

The majority of deaths were reported in rural areas.

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Other than Prayagraj, five deaths each were reported in Kanpur and Fatehpur districts. Four people died in Kaushambi, while Firozabad, Rae Bareli and Unnao reported two deaths each. Both Hardoi and Jhansi reported one death each.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced that compensation of Rs 5 lakh each will be given to the family of those killed. Monetary help will also be provided to those who lost their livestock in rain-related incidents, the state government has announced. 

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi was briefed about the loss of lives and damages due to lightning in the parts of Uttar Pradesh, the PM’s office (PMO) tweeted.

He has announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh each from the PM’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) to the next of kin of the deceased. Rs 50,000 will also be given to those injured.

Meanwhile, in Rajasthan, at least 18 people were killed on Sunday due to lightning strike, reported news agency PTI. 11 people were killed in Jaipur as lightning struck a watchtower in Amber Fort. A group of people was taking selfies there.

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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rainfall in several parts of north India, including in Uttar Pradesh. Lightning is also expected in isolated places is also expected across several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal, the news agency reported.