Rayagada, Sep 13: A tragic lightning strike in Rayagada district claimed the lives of three daily wage labourers and left two others critically injured while they were working in a cotton field near Haripur village under Sheshakhal police limits.

According to local sources, five labourers were engaged in agricultural work when sudden dark clouds gathered over the area. As lightning began to strike, the workers sought shelter in a nearby hut. Moments later, a bolt of lightning struck the hut directly, killing three on the spot and injuring two others.

The deceased have been identified as Sambari Pidika (45) of Bishnuguda village and Giria Miniaka of Jhumuka village. The identity of the third victim is yet to be confirmed. The injured were rushed to Rayagada district headquarters hospital, where they are currently undergoing treatment.

Local MLA visited the hospital to meet the injured and assured support to the affected families.