Bihar: 14 killed, 9 others injured in lightning and rain related incidents during last 24 hours

In Bihar, 14 people lost their lives and nine others were injured in lightning and rain related incidents across the state during the last 24 hours.

The fatalities were reported from six districts with Vaishali accounting for the highest number of six deaths followed by three deaths in Samastipur. Five persons died in four districts of Lakhisarai, Gaya, Jamui and Banka.

The injured are undergoing treatment in local hospitals. Most of the casualties are farmers and labourers who were doing agriculture related work in fields.

Chief minister Nitish Kumar has expressed grief over the loss of lives. He has announced an ex-gratia of four lakh rupees each to the next of the kin of the deceased. Mr. Kumar has ordered free treatment of injured persons.

Meanwhile, Weathermen have cautioned people to remain vigilant as more lightning strikes are expected in the next 24 hours in different parts of the state. Apart from warning for lightning strikes, forecasts have also been issued for rainfall. People have been advised to remain indoors during the bad weather.