Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has expressed deep grief over the loss of three lives due to a severe Kalabaisakhi (Nor’wester) storm in Naranpur area of Keonjhar district and announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the deceased.
In a post on ‘X’, the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) stated, “On learning about the loss of life of three persons due to Kalabaisakhi cyclone in Naranpur under Sadar Tahsil of Keonjhar district, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has expressed deep grief and expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased. He has also announced an assistance of Rs 4 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF) to the next of kin of each deceased.”
The tragic incident occurred when a tent erected for a community feast collapsed due to strong gusty winds in the Naranpur area under Keonjhar Town Police Station limits. Three people were killed on the spot, while another person sustained critical injuries and was immediately rushed to the hospital for treatment. The identities of the deceased are yet to be officially confirmed.
The Kalbaisakhi storm also caused widespread damage across several parts of Keonjhar district. Strong winds uprooted numerous trees, blocking roads and disrupting normal life. Power supply was snapped in many areas following the damage to electricity infrastructure.
Local administration officials have reached the spot and relief and rescue operations are underway. The district administration is assessing the overall damage caused by the severe weather event.
