Three killed, several injured as lightning strikes Uttar Pradesh's Banda

At least three persons were killed and several persons critically injured after being struck by lightning in Salon area of Uttar Pradesh's Banda. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh to each deceased persons' family.

Banda (Uttar Pradesh):A 20-year-old man and two boys were killed after being struck by lightning in a village in Uttar Pradesh's Banda district on Saturday afternoon, police said.

Shiv Pujan Pal, Kamlesh Pal (12) and Vinod Pal (8) were grazing their cattle in the jungle when the incident took place, Circle Officer (CO) Siyaram said.

All the three suffered serious burns and were rushed to the government hospital where they died during treatment, the CO said, adding the bodies have been sent for post-mortem.

Earlier on Sunday, three persons died and four others were injured after being struck by lightning in Salon area of the district.

Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Salon, Ashish Singh, said some people in Gothia Tiwaripur village were grazing animals when lightning accompanied by rain occurred in the evening.

Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed the district administration to provide Rs 4 lakh to families of each of the deceased.

(With inputs from PTI)