PM condoles loss of lives in storms

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today expressed sorrow over the loss of lives in storms that hit parts of the country this evening. He said he has asked officials to provide all possible assistance to those affected.

“Saddened by the loss of lives due to storms in some parts of the country. Condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured,” he wrote on Twitter.

Dust storms and thunderstorms wreaked havoc in Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh and the national capital, killing at least 41 people and leaving behind a trail of destruction.

Uttar Pradesh bore the brunt of a thunderstorm and hail that left at least 18 people dead, while 12 people including four children were killed in West Bengal, nine in Andhra Pradesh, and two in Delhi, officials said.