Madurai: In a tragic incident on Tuesday evening, three women belonging to the same family were killed when lightning struck a tamarind tree under which they had taken shelter while picking cotton in a field near Usilampatti in Madurai district. The deceased have been identified as Ramuthai (60), Dhanushkodi (58), and Ganapathy (62), all residents of Soolapuram village.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred near Kunnuvarpatti village at a garden owned by Vaasiyammal (55) of Soolapuram. Over 15 farm labourers, including the three victims and others from the same village, were engaged in cotton-picking work during the day. As a sudden downpour lashed the area in the evening, the workers sought shelter under a nearby tamarind tree. However, lightning struck the tree, killing Ramuthai, Dhanushkodi, and Ganapathy on the spot.
Injuries and Medical Response
Vaasiyammal, the owner of the garden, sustained severe injuries and her legs were paralysed. She was rushed to the Usilampatti government hospital and later referred to Government Rajaji Hospital in Madurai, where she is currently undergoing intensive treatment. Police personnel from the M Kallupatti police station immediately reached the spot. The bodies of the deceased were recovered and sent to the Usilampatti government hospital for autopsy.
Legal Proceedings
Police have registered a case and further investigation is underway. The tragic event has shocked the local community, highlighting the dangers faced by farm workers during adverse weather conditions.
