Over 30 dead as storm ravages Mirzapur & Bhadohi

Varanasi: More than 30 people were killed and several others injured after severe storms and hailstorms battered the Mirzapur and Bhadohi districts on Wednesday. The storm swept across eastern Uttar Pradesh around 5:30 pm, bringing heavy rain, hail, and winds reaching up to 80 kmph.

Mirzapur DM Pawan Kumar Gangwar said the district was struck by a cyclone-like storm with wind speeds of nearly 60 kmph. At least 17 people lost their lives due to incidents caused by collapsing structures and related accidents. The storm also caused extensive damage to livestock and residential properties. Families of the deceased are being provided compensation of Rs. 4 lakh each under the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF).

In Bhadohi district, the powerful storm hit around 5:30 pm, leading to several incidents in different police station areas. Casualties were reported after trees were uprooted, electricity poles collapsed onto houses, and a pole fell on a temple. DM Shailesh Kumar, along with police officials, visited several affected villages to assess the damage and oversee relief efforts.

The DM said approximately 15 people died. In addition, eight people have been injured in these incidents. A total of 16 livestock have also been reported lost in separate incidents.

Police and administrative teams are actively conducting rescue operations. All those who were trapped or buried in the affected areas have been safely rescued. The injured are being treated at nearby Community Health Centres, while three critically injured individuals have been referred to BHU for advanced medical care.

Authorities have appealed to the public to promptly report any similar incidents through the designated CUG numbers to ensure swift relief and rescue operations. Officials remain on high alert and are continuously monitoring updates received through social media and media partners, taking immediate action wherever required.