Ujjain (MP): A massive hailstorm coupled with heavy rain created havoc at the ongoing Kumbh in Ujjain today. At least 8 people have died and around 80 are reported to be injured.
The high speed wind uprooted the tents set up for the saints. Many people are reported to be lying under these tents.
A number of pandals have been destroyed in various parts of the city including Chintaman road, Badnagar Road, Ujarkheda and Mangalnath.
"A woman pilgrim was killed in Undasa area when the lightning struck her," Ujjain Superintendent of Police Manohar Verma said. She was yet to be identified.
Squall coupled with rain suddenly hit the area, uprooting several 'akharas' or camps of sadhus.
Minister in-charge of Ujjain, Bhupendra Singh, said 15 to 20 pilgrims have suffered injuries in the thunderstorm.
No major damage was reported from anywhere and things were under control, he said, adding the injured had been shifted to a hospital.
MP government announced compensation of Rs 2 lakh each to families of deceased and Rs 50,000 each to critically injured victims.
Expressing his grief over the unfortunate incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, "Anguished over the loss of lives at the Kumbh due to heavy rains. May Almighty give strength to the bereaved families to overcome the grief."
"I hope the injured recover quickly. I pray for the safety & well-being of all saints, pilgrims and tourists at the Kumbh," he added.
The month-long Simhastha (Kumbh) mela began in Ujjain on April 22 and would end on May 21. People from different corners of the country have converged in the holy city for the Simhastha mela, which is being held here after a gap of 12 years.
