At least 20 people were killed and more than 200 others injured when a tornado swept through nearly two dozen villages in estern Bangladesh, tearing roofs off houses and uprooting trees.
The twister, which lashed the country yesterday, left a trail of destruction in 20 villages of Brahmanbaria sadar, Bijoynagar and Akhaura upazilas.
Rail communications between the capital and three districts - Chittagong, Sylhet and Noakhali - were suspended, as tracks were blocked by trees uprooted by the fierce storm.
Among the damaged buildings was Brahmanbaria jail, which partially collapsed, killing a guard, The Daily Star reported.
The worst affected villages were Ghatiara, Chandpur, Paghachang, Bhatshala, Sultanpur, Senda, Shilaour, Urshiura, Gaingah, Ujnishar, Jibantula, Chinair, and Gaingahata of Brahmanbaria, and Merashani of Bijoynagar, and Azampur of Akhaura.
Border Guard Bangladesh 12 Battalion commanding officer Lt Col Maksudul Alam said nine BGB teams including a medical team had been deployed in the affected areas and an army team was on standby.
Meanwhile, Fire Service and Civil Defence officials said around 50 firemen from five stations were engaged in the rescue efforts and clearing the roads of debris.
