Thunderstorm leaves region ‘powerless’

A thunderstorm on Thursday night led to a power shutdown in the region. Patiala witnessed the maximum damage with the wind speed reaching around 100 km per hour. Temporary structures collapsed, trees were uprooted and power lines damaged at many places, leading to power shutdown.

PSPCL Deputy Secretary (IPR) Gopal Sharma claimed the repair work was initiated immediately and power supply restored as soon as possible. The loss was being assessed, he added.

Sources, however, claimed that the power supply remained disrupted through the night at some places. Two towers of 220 KV line were damaged in Fatehgarh Churian town of Gurdaspur. Solar panels installed on rooftops were also damaged at many places.

The high-velocity winds also caused damage to mango, lemon and guava crops, while farmers were seen trying to protect wheat produce at various grain markets.

The India Meteorological Department, Chandigarh centre, has issued a severe weather alert for several districts in the state, forecasting thunderstorms, dust storms and strong winds till May 5.