Recent lightning strikes in Odisha have claimed the lives of at least 9 people and injured 20 others. The marginalized communities, particularly farmers and agricultural laborers working in the fields, have been the most affected. Odisha’s location in the eastern part of India, coupled with its tropical dry and hot climate, creates favorable conditions for frequent and severe lightning strikes.
In response, the Odisha government has announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹4 lakh to the families of the deceased. Additionally, to mitigate the impact of future lightning strikes, the state government has launched an initiative to plant 20 lakh palm trees, which are known for their ability to absorb lightning due to their tall stature and high moisture content. This initiative, aimed at reducing the direct impact of lightning on the ground, is expected to cost the state government ₹7 crore.
