Tank bursts in MP, 25 dead

Twenty-five people were feared dead in a flash flood after an 88-year-old tank burst in Balaghat district of Madhya Pradesh today.

Hundreds of cattle were washed away across five villages, officials said. The breach was caused by heavy rains. The state government has confirmed 12 deaths. District Collector Rajesh Rajore, who was in the area, had to abandon his jeep to save his life.

Reports said 20,000 people in the 21 affected villages of Katangi block had been shifted to safety.

The administration has sought the Air Force’s help in relief and rescue. Officials said seepage from the tank constructed in 1914 was noticed early morning, giving them some time to react. The tank could store 9.2 million litres of irrigation water.