5 killed as storm batters West Bengal

Severe storm in West Bengal’s Jalpaiguri district resulted in five deaths and over 100 injuries.

The storm wreaked havoc in parts of Jalpaiguri district in northern West Bengal.

Several hutments and houses were damaged, trees uprooted and electric poles came crashing down as strong winds accompanied by hail struck most parts of the district headquarters town and many areas of neighbouring Mainaguri on Sunday.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who rushed to the district late on Sunday night, assured the people of all help from the administration.

“So far, we have reports of the death of five people. The number of injured is quite high. I met the injured and the family members of those who died in the storm. The state administration will do everything to help the affected families,” she said.

The CM on Sunday night visited those injured and undergoing treatment at the hospital. She also spoke to the family members of those killed in the storm and assured them of all sorts of assistance.

“This is a disaster, an emergency situation. I have visited the families of those who have been killed and also those who are undergoing treatment at the hospital. I will thank the administration for their prompt action in the rescue operation. We are beside the people and will take care of their treatment and rebuilding the houses,” Banerjee said, adding that the rescue operation is over.

Among the most affected areas in the district were Rajarhat, Barnish, Bakali, Jorpakdi, Madhabdanga and Saptibari, officials said, adding that several acres of agricultural land and crops suffered damage.

(With inputs from agencies)