NEW DELHI, May 14 (Xinhua) -- At least 104 people were killed and over 50 others injured after dust storms and lightning strikes triggered by heavy rains battered the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, officials said Thursday.
The strong winds damaged homes and other structures. It also perished the livestock.
"The deaths have been caused due to the collapsing of structures, falling of tree branches and uprooting of trees," Uttar Pradesh relief commissioner Harikesh Bhaskar Yashod said.
According to locals, the weather changed suddenly on Wednesday evening in the state, sending clouds of dust across several districts.
Reports said many had to take shelter under trees and flyovers as high-speed winds ripped hoardings, signboards and tin sheds. Several roads were blocked, and vehicles were crushed due to fallen trees. The rescuers had to dig through the debris to save those who got trapped.
Yashod said the relief operation was underway in the affected districts and continuous monitoring was being conducted from the integrated control and command center.
"The district administration has been directed to rescue trapped people, provide healthcare facilities to the victims and ensure the reopening of closed roads," he said. ■