Thane Thunderstorm Batters Bhiwandi, Shahapur, Trees Uprooted, Vehicles Damaged, 15-16 Birds Reported Dead

On Wednesday evening, a severe thunderstorm swept through Bhiwandi and Shahapur, disrupting lives with strong winds, torrential rain, and lightning strikes. In Bhiwandi's Devjinagar, a lightning strike ignited a fire in a palm tree, prompting an immediate response from the Anjurphata fire brigade who managed to extinguish the blaze without any casualties or significant property damage.

Meanwhile, Shahapur experienced widespread tree uprooting, fallen branches, and damaged vehicles. A large tree branch collapsed onto an electricity pole at the Panchayat Samiti premises, affecting power supply and trapping several vehicles beneath it. Sadly, this incident led to the death of 15 to 16 birds whose nests were located on the fallen branch.

The Shahapur bus station also sustained damage when a tree fell near the main entrance, smashing a recently arrived bus and a car. In addition, several roads in Shahapur were blocked by fallen trees, causing disruptions to traffic and posing safety risks along Shelvali Road. In Shahapur, the government warehouse suffered damage as strong winds blew away tin sheets, prompting quick action by employees to cover the affected area with tarpaulin.

Former Shahapur MLA Pandurang Barora has called for a thorough assessment of the damage caused to farmers and economically vulnerable families, urging the administration to provide adequate compensation and assistance. Environmentalists have also expressed concern over the death of the birds, urging the Forest Department to investigate the site and evaluate the incident.