The Centre on Monday announced ₹2 lakh ex-gratia from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for families of people who were killed in lightning in different parts of West Bengal. At least 20 people were killed in lightning strikes in three southern districts of the state.
“My thoughts are with all those who lost their near and dear ones due to lightning in parts of West Bengal. May the injured recover at the earliest,” PM Modi tweeted on Monday evening.
The Prime Minister’s Office said in a tweet, “PM @narendramodi has approved an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh each from the PMNRF for the next of kin of those who have lost their lives due to lightning in various parts of West Bengal. Rs. 50,000 would be given to the injured.”
According to West Bengal State disaster management authority, Murshidabad, Hooghly and Purba Medinipur district were among those affected. While nine people died each in Murshidabad and Hooghly districts, two others lost their lives in the Purba Medinipur district, an official of authority said.
Three people were injured in the Murshidabad district by lightning strikes and were taken to the Jangipur hospital.
Union home minister Amit Shah expressed his heartfelt condolences over the tragedy on Twitter, saying, “The deaths caused by lightning in various parts of West Bengal are heartbreaking. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families who have lost loved ones. I’m hoping for a speedy recovery for those who have been injured.”
Thunderstorms with lightning and strong winds were reported in several districts of the state, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). A squall passed over the Alipore observatory in the city at 4.25 p.m. on Monday, with the highest gust of 59 kmph and lasted two minutes, according to the report.
