Patna storm uproots trees near CM, RJD offices; vehicles damaged
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
A powerful storm accompanied by heavy rainfall lashed Patna on Friday, 8 May, triggering widespread disruption across the city, with uprooted trees damaging vehicles, blocking roads, and cutting power supply in multiple localities, officials said. The impact was particularly severe near the official residence of Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and the office of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD).
Key Developments Near VIP Zones
A massive tree fell just outside the Chief Minister's residence during the storm. Several other trees collapsed near the residence of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav, located behind the Chief Minister's bungalow, damaging multiple vehicles parked in the area. Security personnel deployed in the vicinity narrowly escaped, while some individuals are also said to have sustained injuries.
A large tree also fell within the premises of the RJD office in Patna. Leader of the Opposition Tejashwi Yadav was present in his chamber at the time. Upon hearing the loud sound of the tree collapsing, he immediately rushed to a meeting room along with his daughter, narrowly avoiding harm.
Traffic Chaos Across the City
The storm caused major traffic disruptions across several parts of Patna, as uprooted trees and broken branches blocked roads. Traffic movement was particularly affected near the RJD office and along Bailey Road, creating heavy congestion for commuters travelling toward the railway station and adjoining areas. Several vehicles were damaged after trees and branches fell onto roads during the sudden storm.
Emergency Response Underway
Following reports of the incidents, teams from the municipal corporation and disaster-response agencies reached affected locations and began clearing operations. Police personnel and security forces were also seen assisting residents and moving people to safer locations. Officials confirmed that restoration work is underway to remove fallen trees, repair disrupted electricity supply, and restore normal traffic movement.
What's Next
Authorities are continuing efforts to restore normalcy while monitoring the situation across storm-affected parts of the city. A full damage assessment is yet to be completed, and the sudden intensity of the storm — which caused trees to collapse across multiple neighbourhoods almost simultaneously — has raised concerns about urban tree management and storm preparedness in Patna.