Massive storm strikes part of West Bengal leaving 8 dead, several injured; train services disrupted in Kolkata

A massive storm on Tuesday evening left at least 8 people dead and several others injured in West Bengal. Strong winds up to 98 km per hour struck parts of Kolkata and its adjoining areas disrupting public transport and traffic, officials said.   

As per reports in ANI, four deaths each in Kolkata and Howrah districts. "A nor'wester hit the city with a force of 98 km per hour around 7.42 pm," Regional Meteorological Director G K Das said.

Uprooted trees blocked at least 26 places, disrupting traffic, police said. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation pressed into service a disaster management team to clear the debris.

Electrical fires were reported from various parts of the metropolis, a fire department official said.

The New Market police station, located in the heart of the city, plunged into darkness following a short circuit during the storm, he said.

People returning home after work faced traffic jams and snarls, as metro and train services were hit. More than 24 trains were running late from Howrah station, ANI reported.