Fresh tremors jolt in parts of panic-stricken Uttar Pradesh, toll rises to 14

LUCKNOW: Fresh tremors today jolted parts of panic-stricken Uttar Pradesh where the toll mounted to 14, prompting Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav to announce closure of all schools for next two days as a precautionary measure.

Bouts of aftershocks were felt around 12.45 pm for a few seconds in different parts of the state, but there was no immediate report of any casualty or damage to property in the latest temblor.

The break up of the toll, according to official sources, is Barabanki, Sant Kabir Nagar and Gorakhpur (three each), and Kanpur Dehat, Badaun, Kushinagar, Shravasti and Balia (one each).

In Khusinagar district bordering Nepal, one person died during tremors in Nauka Chappara village yesterday, a police spokesman said here today.

Another death was reported from Balia district where a 60-year-old woman lost her life in an incident of wall collapse.

The fresh tremor forced UP Governor Ram Naik to wrap up his programme midway in Kushinagar and he was promptly evacuated by security personnel.

In state capital Lucknow, panic was palpable all over as people ran helter skelter on even a slight tremor and preferred to remain outdoors for fear of old buildings collapsing.

Many spent the night in parks as a precautionary measure. As soon as tremors were felt, people hurriedly vacated theatres and malls here and rushed to open areas.

The Chief Minister announced closure of all schools and colleges for next two days amid fears of more aftershocks.