Meerut, India – A severe weather pattern in Uttar Pradesh has led to tragic results, including multiple house collapses that have killed at least two people and injured others in various districts. Recent heavy rainfall has exacerbated conditions in some of the state’s older buildings, proving fatal for a couple in Sambhal district and causing distress in several communities.
In the village of Dhatra Sheikh located in the Sambhal district, a disastrous incident occurred late Wednesday night when the ceiling of an aging house gave way, crushing Chandan Ram, 50, and his wife Shyamwati, 47, beneath it. Despite owning a newer residence nearby, the couple had chosen to sleep in the older home, which ultimately led to their demise. The couple was quickly transported to a hospital but succumbed to their injuries. Authorities have since confirmed that an autopsy will be conducted and the family will receive financial aid as per government welfare schemes.
Superintendent of Police in Sambhal, Krishan Bishnoi, highlighted the tragic turn of events and assured that the government is looking into providing the necessary support to the bereaved family. “The incident is truly heartbreaking and we are ensuring that all possible help is extended to the family during this tough time,” Bishnoi said.
The weather-induced accidents did not stop at Sambhal. In Meerut’s Dairy Colony, Pramod Kumar and his family encountered a similar fate when their house’s roof collapsed while they were asleep, causing injuries to him, his wife Sunita, and their children, Arju and Ajit. Neighbors played a crucial role in rescuing the family, who are now reported to be in stable condition after receiving medical attention.
A similar occurrence was reported in Zahidpur village in Meerut when a family of four narrowly escaped injury after their house front fell apart. Quick response from locals prevented any casualties, providing a small relief amid the widespread destruction.
Moreover, the devastating pattern continued in Bulandshahr district, where two separate incidents further alarmed the community. A woman, residing in the village of Akarwas Kanani, was severely hurt after being trapped under debris due to her house’s collapsed roof. She was transported to a district hospital in critical condition. Another family in Khediya village suffered when their home crumbled, burying Narangi Lal, his wife Pravesh, and their two children under the rubble. They were rescued by villagers and are currently recovering in a nearby hospital.
The frequency and severity of these incidents have prompted local authorities to investigate the structural integrity of buildings, especially older ones, and to reassess the effectiveness of current disaster response strategies. The community is also urged to prioritize safety and report any structural damages to prevent further tragedies as the region continues to face severe weather challenges.
As residents grapple with loss and damage, the urgency for more robust construction standards and better-preparedness measures is becoming increasingly apparent. The state government is being called upon to strengthen infrastructure and provide immediate assistance to those affected by such calamities, ensuring a layer of safety and security against unpredictable natural disasters.