Bihar: 13 killed due to lightning strikes in last 24 hours; CM Nitish Kumar announces Rs 4 lakhs ex-gratia

ANI June 18, 2025 465 views

Lightning strikes in Bihar claimed 13 lives across multiple districts in 24 hours. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced Rs 4 lakh compensation for each victim's family. The CM urged residents to follow safety guidelines during storms. Disaster Management Department continues to monitor the situation.

"It is sad that in the last 24 hours... Rs. 4 lakhs as ex-gratia to the families" - CM Nitish Kumar
Patna, June 18: Thirteen people lost their lives due to lightning strikes across various districts in Bihar in the last 24 hours, according to an official statement on Tuesday.

Key Points

1

13 killed in Bihar lightning strikes across 6 districts

2

Nitish Kumar announces Rs 4 lakh compensation

3

CM urges caution during adverse weather

4

Disaster Management advisories issued for safety

The deaths were reported from Buxar (4 deaths), West Champaran (3), Katihar (2), and one each from Kaimur, Lakhisarai, and Sitamarhi districts.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the bereaved families.

"It is sad that in the last 24 hours, four persons have died in Buxar, 3 in West Champaran, 2 in Katihar, 1 in Kaimur, 1 in Lakhisarai and 1 in Sitamarhi due to lightning. Instructions have been given to immediately give Rs. 4 lakhs as ex-gratia to the families of the deceased," said CM Nitish Kumar in a post on X.

The Chief Minister urged people to remain indoors during adverse weather conditions and to follow safety advisories issued by the Disaster Management Department.

"People are appealed to be fully cautious during bad weather. To protect yourself from lightning, follow the suggestions issued from time to time by the Disaster Management Department. Stay indoors during bad weather and stay safe," he added.

Further investigation is still ongoing.

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Very tragic news from Bihar. Lightning strikes have become so frequent these days. The government should invest more in early warning systems and lightning protection measures in rural areas. ₹4 lakh compensation is good but prevention is better. 🙏
P
Priya M.
My heart goes out to the families. Most victims are farmers working in fields when this happens. Maybe the government can create more awareness about weather apps and safety protocols during monsoon season. Stay safe everyone!
A
Amit S.
While the compensation is appreciated, why isn't Bihar government installing lightning arresters in vulnerable areas? States like Odisha have shown how technology can reduce such deaths. Need long-term solutions, not just ex-gratia announcements.
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Neha T.
This is heartbreaking 💔 Every year we hear such news during monsoons. The CM's advisory is good but how will it reach farmers in remote villages? Need community-level awareness programs through ASHA workers and panchayats.
S
Sanjay P.
My uncle survived a lightning strike last year in Gaya. The trauma stays forever. Government should make lightning protection devices affordable for farmers. Also, schools should teach basic weather safety - it can save lives!
K
Kavita R.
The compensation amount is decent but will it reach the families on time? Often there's so much paperwork and delays. Hope the administration makes the process smooth for grieving families. Om Shanti for the departed souls.

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Bihar lightning deaths Nitish Kumar ex-gratia disaster management weather alert