Lucknow: In a massive tragedy, at least 21 people were killed and more than 20 injured on Sunday after the roof of a shelter at a cremation ground in Uttar Pradesh’s Muradnagar collapsed.
According to a PTI report, most of the victims were relatives and acquaintances of Jai Ram, who was being cremated at that time. As it was raining, the mourners had taken refuge under the structure close to the cremation ground.
Local rescue workers, who were later joined by a National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team, searched for hours to check if any more people were trapped under the debris.
“About 38 people have been rescued after a shed collapsed in Muradnagar. We’ve started a probe and will take strict action against those found guilty,” Meerut Divisional Commissioner Anita C Meshram was quoted as saying by ANI.
Expressing grief at the accident, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced Rs 2 lakh financial relief for families of the deceased.
President Ram Nath Kovind offered condolences to the victim’s families. “My condolences to the family of the deceased. I pray that those hurt in this accident get well soon. Local administration is working for relief & assistance,” the President tweeted.
