Three dead, thousands marooned in Chhattisgarh rains

RAIPUR - Two days of continuous rains in parts of Chhattisgarh, mainly the southern region of Bastar, have led to the death of three people and left thousands of people marooned, officials said Tuesday.

The deaths were reported from Narayanpur district of Bastar region where three people were swept away by heavy rains Monday night. Their deaths were confirmed Tuesday. An official statement also said over 100 houses had caved in due to the downpour in the district.

The statement added that heavy rains have also marooned several villages in neighbouring Kanker district where several key roads have been submerged.

Chief Minister Raman Singh has instructed the district authorities to rush in all help to victims and set up relief camps.

Reports coming in from Narayanpur and Kanker said thousands of people were marooned and local authorities were struggling to reach them with relief material.

The metrological department has predicted more rains Tuesday in several parts of the state, including Bastar.