Dharan church collapse claims 23 lives, many more injured
At least 23 people have been killed and some 65 injured when a church in the eastern town of Dharan in Sunsari district collapsed Tuesday night.
Four children were among those who lost their lives when the three-storied church with a tin roof crumbled at Victoria Chowk. As the fatal incident took place at night, the magnitude of casualty was high.
The deceased have been identified as Dilmaya Lugun, 82, of Jhapa, Rajesh Rai, 23, of Udaypur, Salmi Tamang, 16, of Jhapa, Rajen Rai, 26, of Morang, Kalabati Khausiyar, 40, Kisan Chaudhary, 60, of Morang, Punam Magar, 50, of Morang, Kumari Tamang, Peter Lawati, 48, Kalpana Thagam, 25, of Kaski, Nandakishor Limbu, 65, of Itahari, Saroja Limbu, 40, of Jhapa, Asharam Rai, 12, of Jhapa, Sarita Dipali, 48, of Lalitpur, Sipola Subba, 9, of Jhapa, Nandimaya BK, 9, of Jhapa, Abhisekh Rai, 10, Pabitra Limbu, 35, of Morang, Goma Bhujel, 60, of Sunsari, Arati Maya Rai, 55, of Dharan, Marcy Mese, 28, of Jhapa, Suleman Tamang, 7, of Kathmandu and Indian national Neru Rai, 35.
Those sustaining injuries are undergoing medical treatment at BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences in Dharan.
It is reported that some 1,800 people, including Indian nationals, had congregated at the church to attend an international seminar which began on Monday.
The cause behind the collapse is yet to be ascertained. However, it is reported that temporary tent constructed of bamboo poles collapsed due to excessive people.
PM expresses condolence
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal has expressed sorrow at the death of 23 persons in the Church collapse and expressed condolence to the bereaved families.
Issuing a statement, the prime minister said he is "extremely shocked and saddened" to hear the news of death of 23 people and injuries of 65 persons in the incident.
"I express heartfelt condolence to the departed souls and wish for speedy recovery of those injured," he said.
(Source: Nepalnews)
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