Severe Storm Claims Seven Lives, Disrupts Kolkata and South Bengal

A torrential thunderstorm struck Kolkata and parts of south Bengal on Friday, claiming seven lives and causing widespread chaos. The downpour accompanied by powerful winds led to devastating incidents including electrocution, house collapses, and lightning strikes, resulting in fatalities across several districts, officials confirmed.

The West Bengal government has promised financial aid of Rs 4 lakh to the families of those who lost their lives. The storm disrupted life across the region, grounding flights, halting train services, and uprooting trees, damaging vehicles in their path. Authorities are now working to clear the debris and restore normalcy to affected areas.

With rainfall offering a respite from previous hot weather, it also significantly hampered city infrastructure. Public services experienced major interruptions, such as at the Kolkata airport due to waterlogged runways, and in the railway network, where trees had fallen on tracks. The government is forming a committee to address the protection of large trees vulnerable to such extreme weather events.

The meteorological department forecasts similar weather patterns over the next few days, urging caution, especially for fishermen along the coastal areas. Meanwhile, local officials continue to monitor traffic and urban operations to manage the aftermath of this unexpected storm.

(With inputs from agencies.)