14 killed, several injured as tent collapses in Rajasthan dust storm

23 June: 14 people died and over 50 injured after a pandaal (tent) collapsed in Barmer in Rajasthan. The incident happened at around 4:30 pm due to sudden rain and storm in Barmer. However,the injured people have been admitted to a hospital. According to the reports, the locals in Barmer had assembled to listen to Ram Katha (The story of Ram).A ‘Ram Katha’ was organised at Jasol area of the district when the shamiana was uprooted by strong winds trapping the people sitting under it.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has announced Rs five lakh each to the next of the kin of those who lost their lives in Barmer pandal incident. The injured will be provided Rs two lakh as compensation.He has initiated an investigation into the Barmer tent collapse case. He also said that he has directed the concerned officials to carry out the rescue and relief work.