At least 25 people were killed in lightning strikes and hailstorms in several districts of Bihar on Thursday, April 10. According to a statement issued by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), Nalanda reported 18 deaths, followed by two in Siwan, one each in Katihar, Darbhanga, Begusarai, Bhagalpur and Jehanabad.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar condoled the deaths and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each for the next of kin of the deceased, it said. On Wednesday, 13 people had died in lightning strikes in four districts of Bihar.
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In Nalanda's Nagma village reported 18 fatalities a Peepal tree collapsed on a temple during heavy rain and strong winds. Bihar Sharif Subdivisional Officer (SDO) Kajale Vaibhav Nitin said, "Information has been received that six people have died in this tragic incident. Post-mortems are underway, and compensation is being provided by the administration. Those who are injured are receiving proper medical treatment, and they will also be given compensation as per administrative provisions. The administration and police are making every effort to rescue those still affected by the disaster..."
The Chief Minister's Office of Bihar said, "Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is deeply saddened by the death of 18 people in Nalanda, 2 in Siwan, 1 in Katihar, 1 in Darbhanga, 1 in Begusarai, 1 in Bhagalpur and 1 in Jehanabad due to severe storm and lightning... The Chief Minister has declared ex-gratia grants of Rs 4 lakh each to the dependents of the deceased. The Chief Minister has appealed to the people that everyone should be fully alert during bad weather and follow the suggestions issued from time to time by the Disaster Management Department."