Severe storms kill 43, cause damage to Taj Mahal in Uttar Pradesh, India

Severe storms hit Uttar Pradesh, India, on Saturday, May 30, 2020, killing a total of 43 people. Taj Mahal also sustained some damage, particularly the main mausoleum's marble railing and the red sandstone railings.

According to the latest report issued by the Relief Commissioner's Office, a total of 43 people were killed in various districts.

Eight fatalities were reported from Unnao and five from Kannauj. Officials reported that two persons died while six were injured in separate incidents of collapsed houses due to dust storm in Lucknow.

"On Saturday night, a dust storm hit the Bahua area in which a kutcha house collapsed over a 55-year-old man leading to his death," said Pradeep Kumar Yadav, station house officer of Lalauli police. Another house collapsed in Kusumbhi village, taking the life of a 60-year-old man.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed his condolences at the casualties, announcing that compensation of about 5 300 dollars or 400 000 rupees will be provided to the families of the deceased, as well as proper treatment for the injured.

The official ordered authorities to provide prompt assistance to the affected residents.

According to reports from the Archaeological Survey of India, the Taj Mahal's door was damaged, its mausoleum's false ceiling collapsed, and several nearby trees were knocked down.

"One sandstone railing which was a part of the original structure has been damaged," said Vasant Kumar Swarnkar, superintending archaeologist.

"One marble railing which was a later addition, a false ceiling in the tourist holding area and the base stone of the main gate has also been damaged," he added.

Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is among India's most priced attractions.

Featured image credit: OneIndia Hindi/YouTube