2 killed in rain-related incidents in Uttarakhand

Two persons were today killed as a rain-triggered rockslide hit the shop they were sitting in, at Pithoragarh district, here, according to state's disaster management authorities.
The incident took place in the afternoon at Bangpani village in the district following an intermittent rain since this morning in the area, the authorities said.
Victims, identified as Narayan Singh (55) and Prahlad Singh (35), were the residents of the Bangpani village.
Chief Minister Harish Rawat expressed grief over the incident and announced an ex gratia of Rs 1 lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased.
Rawat also directed the District Magistrate to ensure all possible help to the bereaved families.

Taking stock of the situation, he spoke to the District officials of Champawat, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, and Uttarkashi and directed them to be extra-cautious to deal with any eventuality due to rain and snowfall.