Two killed, 23 injured in dust storm-related incidents in Delhi

Strong winds wreaked havoc across Delhi, resulting in at least two fatalities and injuries to 23 individuals in storm-related incidents. The tempestuous winds uprooted trees, toppled electricity poles, and caused sections of walls to collapse.

As the dust storm swept through the national capital late Friday night, power outages plagued many areas. In Vikaspuri, west Delhi, tragedy struck when a person on a two-wheeler lost his life after being struck by a tree branch near the Janakpuri flyover.

Despite efforts to rescue him and transport him to Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, Jaiprakash succumbed to his injuries upon arrival. Although a car was also damaged in the incident, its occupants escaped unharmed.

In another unfortunate incident, a laborer was fatally trapped under a fallen tree near IB Block at KN Katju Marg around 11 PM. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, Hariom was declared dead by doctors. Once again, a car bore the brunt of the incident, yet its occupants remained safe.

Authorities were inundated with distress calls, receiving a total of 152 reports, with 130 directed to the Delhi Fire Service (DFS), detailing incidents ranging from uprooted trees and electricity poles to collapsing hoardings and structures. Among these calls, 55 were concerning the collapse of portions of buildings and structures across the city.

Furthermore, officials reported 202 calls regarding power disruptions during the storm. The adverse weather conditions also led to the diversion of nine flights at the Delhi airport late Friday evening, according to an official statement.

(With PTI inputs)