May 03, 2018: About 50 people feared killed in Uttar Pradesh and more than 20 in Rajasthan after a dust storm hit these states ; Several people injured; Relief and rescue operations underway.
Nature’s fury caused widespread damage across North India. According to National Disaster Management Authority, due to lightning 33 persons have died and 205 others got injured in Bharatpur, Alwar, Dhaulpur & Jhunjhunu distt of Rajasthan. It added that 65 have died in Agra, Bijnor, Saharnpur, Bareilly, Chitrakoot, Raebareli and Unnao districts of Uttar Pradesh. While, 38 persons were injured in UP.
Besides, 156 animals also died in UP.
Delhi too witnessed rainfall bringing respite from the intense heat even as incidents of trees falling on the streets were reported causing problems for commuters.
Normal life was also hit in many places across Punjab, Haryana, including Chandigarh, as they witnessed high-velocity dust storm.
President Ram Nath Kovind has expressed grief over loss of lives due to thunderstorms and heavy rainfall in Rajasthan, UP, Punjab and other parts of north India. In a tweet he said “Authorities taking steps to help affected people. Condolences to bereaved families and wishing an early recovery to injured.”
PM Modi also condoled the loss of lives due to dust storms in various parts of India.
In a tweet he said, “Have asked officials to coordinate with the respective state governments and work towards assisting those who have been affected.” (DD News)
