Tragedy in Koraput, Odisha: Three Members of the Same Family Killed by Lightning

Odisha News:The sudden change in weather in Odisha on Friday wreaked havoc. 14 people died and many others were injured in incidents of lightning in various districts of the state. The Meteorological Department had already issued a warning of strong thunderstorms and lightning in many parts, despite this the loss of life could not be avoided.

Three members died of the same family

Three members of the same family, Bridhi Mandinga (60), his granddaughter Kasa Mandinga (18) and Ambika Kashi (35), who were working in the field in Pardiguda village of Laxmipur block of Koraput district, died on the spot due to lightning. All were hiding in a hut to avoid rain, where lightning struck. Bridhi's husband Hingu Mandinga (65) has been seriously injured and has been admitted to Laxmipur Community Health Center.

Deaths in other districts too

1. 31-year-old Rita Gowda died of lightning while plucking mangoes in Kekri Berhampur village of Ganjam district.
2. 30-year-old Damyanti Mandal, who was selling vegetables in Kankata village of Gajapati district, also died of the same reason.
3. 40-year-old Surushi Biswal also died of lightning in Kusumudia village of Dhenkanal district.

Children also lost their lives

15-year-old Tare Hembram and 12-year-old Tukulu Chatar, who were playing outside in Burusahi village of Jajpur district, also died of lightning. Both the children were playing outside the house at the time of the incident.

State government's response

The state government has announced compensation to the families of the deceased and to bear the entire cost of treatment of the injured. The Meteorological Department has also warned of strong storms and lightning in the coming days, so citizens have been advised to remain alert.

There is a need to take concrete steps

Incidents of lightning strikes are increasing rapidly in Odisha. Dozens of lives are lost every year. In such a situation, it is important that concrete and long-term steps are taken at the government level.

1. Awareness campaigns should be run in villages and people should be advised to go to safe places.
2. Lightning alert systems and safe shelters should be developed.
3. Labourers and children working in the fields should be alerted on time.