Massive Indian dust storm kills more than 70, injures scores more (VIDEO)
A powerful dust storm in northern India has killed more than 70 people and injured more than 140 others on Wednesday. Many reportedly died in their sleep while the storm swept through their homes.
India’s Hindustan Times reports that the storm left a trail of destruction in its wake, uprooting trees and affecting the electricity supply in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.
Deadly dust storm kills dozens, causes huge damage across Indian states of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh [03 May] #verifiedpic.twitter.com/OJ4eOMEvmU
— RTDigital (@RT_Digital) May 3, 2018
Some 150 animals have also reportedly been killed as a result. Writing on Twitter, Rajasthan’s Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje said: “Have directed Ministers and concerned officials to affected areas to begin relief work immediately and restore utilities. An unfortunate incident, we have been working closely with local authorities to mitigate the situation.”
Have directed Ministers and concerned officials to affected areas to begin relief work immediately and restore utilities. An unfortunate incident, we have been working closely with local authorities to mitigate the situation.
— Vasundhara Raje (@VasundharaBJP) May 3, 2018
The Agra district of Uttar Pradesh, home to the iconic Taj Mahal, was the area worst affected. The Times of India reports that 36 people, including children, lost their lives there. The storm also hit the capital Delhi, though no casualties have been reported.
The state government has said that the families of the dead will receive 400,000 rupees ($6,000) in compensation.
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