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 c
remated 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.