Arunachal Pradesh: Four killed, six injured in lightning strike

Itanagar: Lightning has claimed the lives of four persons and injured six in a remote area of Changlang district in Arunachal Pradesh.

Three girls identified as Jalina Yobin (12), Chanisa Yobin (14), Chathiya Yobin (13) and Shalida Yobi, a 38-year woman, were killed when lightning struck them at Vijaynagar area in Gandhigram village yesterday, police said today.

Of the six injured, the condition of one person was critical following which he had to be evacuated to neighbouring Assam, the police said.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu has announced immediate release of ex-gratia to the next of kin of the victims and directed the district administration to immediately provide all possible assistance to the injured.

He also appealed to the people to be cautious during monsoon.

He conveyed his condolence to the bereaved family members and prayed for speedy recovery of the injured.

Khandu has also ordered deployment of chopper service today at Vijaynagar, which is not connected by roads, to evacuate the injured.