The sudden thunderstorm that struck parts of West Bengal's Jalpaiguri district on Sunday resulted in significant loss of life and widespread destruction. At least five people lost their lives, and over 300 others sustained injuries as the storm, accompanied by hail, wreaked havoc across the region.
The intense storm, captured in numerous videos circulating on social media, caused extensive damage to approximately 800 houses, uprooted numerous trees, and knocked down electric poles as powerful gusty winds swept through Jalpaiguri and neighboring Mainaguri.
Upon learning of the disaster, Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee promptly visited Jalpaiguri, where she met with the injured at Jalpaiguri Super Specialty Hospital and extended her condolences to the families of the victims. She reassured the affected individuals that the state government would provide all possible assistance and support during this difficult time.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences for the lives lost in the storm and instructed BJP workers to aid the affected people. He directed officials to ensure the provision of proper assistance to those in need.
Several developments unfolded in the aftermath of the storm:
- Two critically injured children were transferred to North Bengal Medical College for treatment.
- Many individuals continue to receive medical treatment at Jalpaiguri District Hospital.
- Eyewitnesses described the storm's intensity, which caused extensive damage to properties, vehicles, and infrastructure.
- The impact of the storm extended to neighboring districts such as Coochbehar and Alipurduar.
- Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee confirmed five fatalities and a significant number of injuries, emphasizing the government's commitment to supporting affected families.
- However, she refrained from discussing compensation details due to the prevailing model code of conduct, directing inquiries to the district administration.
- Several areas, including Rajarhat, Bakali, Jorpakdi, Saptibari, Barnish, and Madhabdanga, reported extensive damage to infrastructure and agricultural land.
- Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose departed for Jalpaiguri, terming the natural disaster "very unfortunate" and assuring that all agencies are working together to address the situation.
- An emergency cell was established at Raj Bhavan, and the governor requested additional support from the disaster management authority in Delhi. He planned to visit Jalpaiguri to assess the situation firsthand and meet with affected individuals.
The coordinated efforts of government agencies, relief workers, and local authorities are crucial in providing timely assistance and support to the affected communities and mitigating the impact of the storm.
