Keonjhar: At least three persons were killed and another sustained critical injury after a powerful nor’wester wreaked havoc in Naranpur area of Keonjhar district on Thursday afternoon.
According to preliminary information, strong winds accompanied by rain led to the collapse of a tent structure, trapping several people underneath. The victims were reportedly working at the site when the incident occurred.
The deceased have been identified as Alok Chipindia, Sagar Nayak and Petu Nayak, all associated with Maa Tarini Tent House. One person who sustained grievous injuries has been rushed to a nearby hospital and is stated to be in critical condition.
Local authorities and police teams rushed to the spot soon after the incident and carried out rescue operations. The bodies were later recovered from beneath the debris.
Expressing deep grief over the loss of lives in the tragic incident, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased. The assistance will be released from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF).
The storm also uprooted and damaged trees in several parts of the district, causing widespread disruption. Power supply was snapped in many areas following the severe weather conditions.