Kolkata, July 26 -- At least 19 people died and many were injured as lightning struck throughout Bengal over the past 24 hours, Government sources said. Heavy showers accompanied by strong winds swept through the entire State, particularly the southern part of Bengal."
The highest casualties were reported from Bankura, followed by East Burdwan, Purulia and West Midnapore, sources said. Most of the victims were farmers caught in the fields during the sudden downpours, sources said.
Nine people, mostly farmers died at Kotulpur, Onda, Indas and Jaipur in Bankura district whereas six died in East Burdwan district. Four died in Purulia and West Midnapore districts.
Meanwhile, even as a large part of Kolkata and the adjacent Salt Lake and Howr...