13 killed in lightning strikes in four districts of Bihar, CM Nitish Kumar announces ex-gratia

At least thirteen people were killed after being struck by lightning across four districts in Bihar, an official statement said on Wednesday. According to the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), Begusarai reported five deaths, Darbhanga four, Madhubani three and Samastipur one.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has expressed his deep condolences on the death of 13 people and announced an ex gratia of Rs 4 lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased,  the statement



added.

The Chief Minister has appealed to the people to be very cautious during bad weather. "In case of bad weather, follow the suggestions issued from time to time by the Disaster Management Department to protect yourself from lightning. Stay indoors and stay safe during bad weather," said the CM. 

As per the Bihar Economic Survey (2024-25) report presented during the state assembly's budget session in February, the state recorded 275 deaths due to lightning or thunderstorms in the year 2023.