Date:03/06/2006 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/06/03/stories/2006060304400900.htm

Back Maharashtra rains: Death toll 35

Our Bureau

Mumbai, June 2

Many districts in Maharashtra experienced moderate to heavy rainfall in the last 24 hours. The death toll in rain related mishaps has touched 35, including seven in Sindhudurg, four in Ratnagiri and three in Mumbai. Ratnagiri district received the highest rainfall of 118 mm, Mr Bhushan Gagrani, spokesperson for Maharashtra Government, told presspersons on Friday. The approach road to Aarevaare Bridge, a major road bridge in Ratnagiri, has been washed off due to heavy rains. According to him, of the 35 dead, 14 persons died due to lightning, six due to electrocution, house collapse and drowning. The exact reason for three deaths is yet to be confirmed. Mr Gagrani said compensation of Rs 50,000 would be given to the family members of victims below 18 years and Rs 1,00,000 in the case of those above 18 years. The island area of Mumbai received 30 mm of rain and the suburbs, 15 mm. All local and outstation trains were running as per schedule. However Konkan Railway was operating behind schedule by four hours, Mr Gagrani said.