NEW DELHI, June 23 (Xinhua) -- At least 14 people were killed and over 50 injured Sunday after a makeshift tent collapsed during a religious gathering in India's Western state of Rajasthan, officials said.
The makeshift tent collapsed during dust storm at Rani Bhatiyani temple, Jasol in Barmer district, about 452 km west of Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan.
"A tent collapsed here this evening during a dust storm. We are being told 14 people were killed and over 50 people injured in the tragedy," an official posted in Barmer said. "All the injured have been rushed to nearest hospitals in Balotra and Jodhpur."
Following the storm, heavy rains lashed the area.
Reports said following the storm a live wire snapped and several people were electrocuted.
According to officials the people had gathered for a religious event.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Ghelot has described the loss of lives in the accident unfortunate and prayed for speedy recovery of the injured.
Ghelot said he has ordered officials to rush to the spot to carry out rescue work.
"Relief and rescue work is being carried out by the local administration," Ghelot said. "The concerned authorities have been instructed to investigate the incident, ensure speedy treatment of the injured and provide all possible assistance to the affected and their families."
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also expressed grief over the deaths.
"Collapse of a 'Pandaal' (tent) in Rajasthan's Barmer is unfortunate. My thoughts are with the bereaved families and I wish the injured a quick recovery," Modi said in a statement posted on twitter.
