1st LD Writethru: 6 pilgrims killed, 40 injured at Hindu congregation in India

At least six pilgrims were killed and 40 others injured after being hit by a thunderstorm Thursday in central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, officials said.

The pilgrims had assembled at Simhastha Kumbh mela (fair), one of the largest congregations of Hindus in India, in Ujjain district, about 191 km west of Bophal city, the capital of Madhya Pradesh.

"The causalities happened after several tents collapsed due to thundershowers and dust storm this evening," an official said. "The deceased include one saint and three women pilgrims."

Reports said the thunderstorm accompanied by lightening and strong winds collapsed a huge tent, besides uprooting several several makeshift camps of saints, causing panic among the visiting devotees.

The injured pilgrims were immediately rushed to hospital.

Authorities claimed the situation was brought under control and appealed pilgrims not to panic.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed sadness over the loss of lives at the Kumbh.

The month-long Simhastha Kumbh mela began on April 22.

As part of the congregation huge crowd of Hindu devotees throng the river bank to take part in the ritual dip, which as per their belief "washes off their sins" and help them achieve salvation.

The Madhya Pradesh government is expecting more than 50 million visitors during the month-long fair.

Reports said nine spots along the river on eight kilometer stretch have been earmarked to allow over 100,000 people to bathe and pray at the same time. Endit