93 Killed in Rain-Related Incidents in UP; No Leaves for Officials

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday, 29 September, directed that in view of incessant rain, which has claimed at least 93 lives since Thursday, no government official will be granted leave.

As heavy rains continue to wreak havoc in Uttar Pradesh, nearly 850 prisoners from Ballia District were moved to jails in the neighbouring districts on Monday, 30 September, due to water logging inside the barracks, according to IANS.

Ballia District Magistrate Bhavani Singh Khangaraut said that water logging rose five inches to one foot in the barracks.

"We have received approval of authorities concerned to shift 450 prisoners to Azamgarh jail. Approval for shifting more prisoners to Mau and Ambedkar Nagar jails is awaited," Khangaraut said.

According to a government report, 14 people lost their lives on Sunday, 25 on Saturday while 54 had died in the two days before that as heavy rains continued in different parts of the state disrupting normal life.

Administration of Lucknow, Amethi, Hardoi and some others districts had announced closure of schools on Saturday due to the rains.

‘Relief Work Should Be Accelerated’

"Immediate provisions should be made to pump out water from the flooded areas, and relief material should be provided to people affected by flood. In view of the incessant rain, no official will be granted leave," a government statement said quoting Adityanath.

He said relief work should be accelerated, ensuring no shortage of food material in the flood-affected areas.

The chief minister has asked the officials to extend monetary help of Rs 4 lakh each to the next of kin of those killed and also arrange treatment for the injured, an official said, adding that directions have also been issued to address the issue of waterlogging.

The officials have also been directed to undertake tour of their districts, and make necessary arrangements on the spot to tackle any emergency situation, the statement said.