PM Modi expresses grief over loss of lives in Uttarakhand

New Delhi, July 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed grief over the loss of lives caused by cloudburst and heavy rain in Uttarakhand.

"I am grieved by the loss of lives caused due to cloudburst and heavy rain in parts of Uttarakhand. Condolences to bereaved families," Modi said in a statement.

"My prayers are with those injured. I hope normalcy returns to the rain-affected areas at the earliest," the Prime Minister said.

At least seven people were killed following cloudburst and landslides as heavy rains lashed Pithoragarh and Chamoli districts of Uttarakhand, officials said.

"As many as 30 people have been trapped in the debris following landslides in Bastia village of Kanalichhina block in Pithoragarh district. Bodies of four persons have been recovered by the district administration team with the help of local people," a police official said.

IANS