In a tragic incident in Kalgav village of Chhattisgarh’s Kanker district, a deputy sarpanch and two villagers lost their lives, while five others were injured when lightning struck a tree under which they sought shelter during a sudden downpour. The deceased individuals were identified as Manraj Patel, the deputy sarpanch, along with Santosh Patel and Prakash Patel, all residents of Kalgav.
The injured, including five women, are receiving medical care, with one woman being referred to Kanker for advanced treatment. The group had gathered for work under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) scheme, engaging in pond-deepening activities when the weather abruptly turned stormy.
While seeking refuge from the rain under a nearby tree, a powerful lightning strike hit, claiming three lives and injuring five others. Villagers recounted the sudden turn of events, highlighting how the laborers were taken by surprise by the changing weather conditions. Local authorities are expected to assess safety measures at MGNREGA worksites to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the village mourns the loss, efforts are focused on providing support to the affected families and ensuring proper medical attention for the injured. The bodies of the deceased have been sent for post-mortem examination, and precautions are being considered to enhance safety at work sites. Thunderstorms and strong winds are prevalent in central India as the monsoon season approaches.
