Lightning, heavy rains kill 57 in Bihar; Rs 4 lakh compensation announced

Fifty-seven people lost their lives and 24 others were injures after heavy rains and thunderstorms landed in Bihar. The thunderstorm accompanied by heavy rains lashed Bihar since yesterday killing 57 people, while 24 others sustained injuries, Principal Secretary (Disaster Management) Vyasji told PTI. The state government has announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the victims' families.

While six persons were killed in various parts of Patna district, five others died in Buxar district, he said. Nalanda, Bhojpur, Rohtas, Kaimur, Aurangabad, Purnea registered four deaths each, while Katihar, Saharsa and Saran districts recorded three human fatalities each, Vyasji said.

Bhagalpur, Munger, Samastipur districts recorded two deaths each, while Banka, Madhepura, Muzaffarpur and West Champaran districts registered one death each, he said, adding three more deaths were reported from other areas.

In addition, 24 other persons sustained injuries in lightning in various districts, he said, adding that 13 cattle also perished.

An ex-gratia payment of Rs four lakh will be provided to the kin of the victims and in some cases financial assistance has already been provided to the affected families, he said.

For the injured persons, ex-gratia amount will be decided on severity of the injuries, Vyasji said.