Struck by lightning: 11 tourists die in Jaipur's Amer watchtower

Jaipur, July 12, 2021

Eleven tourists lost their lives and another eight suffered injuries during a lightning strike near the Amer Fort.

The incident occurred on Sunday when these tourists were out enjoying a pleasant evening -- some were busy taking selfies while others were chatting when they were struck down. Around twenty-seven people were reported to have been on the watchtower and the fort wall when the incident happened.

Jaipur Police Commissioner Anand Shrivastav confirmed the incident. "A total of 11 people have died as lightning struck them while eight people have been injured," Shrivastav said.

A few of them slipped from the hills and fell, deep down among bushes. SDRF teams have been rescuing them since last night and are searching for victims, said the disaster relief force officials.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh each for the families of those killed.

Police sources said that many tourists suffered injuries as they jumped off the watchtower in panic.

IANS