Patna and Kolkata: At least 14 people were killed on Friday as severe weather struck Bihar and West Bengal, leaving families devastated and authorities rushing relief measures in the affected areas.
In Bihar, seven people died in lightning strikes after the weather suddenly changed in several districts. According to reports, three deaths were recorded in Gaya, two in Aurangabad, and one each in Saran and Khagaria. Heavy rain, strong winds and thunderstorms also affected normal life in parts of the state.
Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary expressed grief over the deaths and directed the Disaster Management Department to provide immediate assistance to the bereaved families. The state government has announced an ex gratia of ₹4 lakh each for the next of kin of the deceased. Officials have also been asked to ensure that there is no delay in completing the required formalities.
The Chief Minister appealed to people to remain cautious during bad weather and follow safety guidelines issued by the disaster management authorities. People have been advised to stay indoors during lightning and avoid open fields, trees and water bodies when thunderstorms occur.
In West Bengal, a severe Kalbaisakhi storm hit Kolkata and several districts of south Bengal, claiming seven lives in rain related incidents. The storm brought strong winds and heavy rain, uprooting trees, damaging electric lines and disrupting road traffic in several places.
The Alipore weather office recorded strong gusts in the afternoon, with wind speed reaching 74 kmph in Dum Dum and 88 kmph in Kolkata. In the Prinsep Ghat area of Kolkata, one person died after a tree fell during the storm. Reports of fallen trees and snapped power cables also came in from Salt Lake and other parts of the city.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced ₹4 lakh compensation for the families of those who lost their lives. The state government has also said that injured persons will receive financial assistance, though the amount is yet to be finalised.
The twin weather tragedies have once again highlighted the risk posed by lightning and sudden pre monsoon storms in eastern India. With unstable weather conditions continuing, authorities in both states have urged people to remain alert and cooperate with local administration during rescue and restoration work.