A powerful dust storm has killed 77 people and injured 143 more in north India.

The storms uprooted trees and electricity poles, and brought down walls and houses in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday night.

Some were also killed by lightning, reports the Skynews.

Officials said the death toll may rise. Around 150 animals have also been killed.

Rajasthan's chief minister Vasundhara Raje tweeted: "Have directed Ministers and concerned officials to affected areas to begin relief work immediately and restore utilities.

"An unfortunate incident, we have been working closely with local authorities to mitigate the situation.

"The Govt. stands firmly with its people in this time."

The Alwar power distribution company said it would take them at least two days to restore electricity to the area.

The Agra district of Uttar Pradesh, home to the Taj Mahal, was one of the worst hit, but the famous monument has escaped damage.

TP Gupta of the Uttar Pradesh relief commissioner's office said: "We can confirm at least 46 deaths, 41 injuries from around 40 of the state's 75 districts."

According to officials, most deaths have happened in homes, after they collapsed.

Hemant Gera, Rajasthan's Disaster Management and Relief Department's secretary said: "Most of (the) 31 deaths and 102 injuries across our state were from three districts Alwar, Dholpur and Bharatpur."

Relief commissioner Sanjay Kumar said 36 people died in Agra, when wind speed hit 130km (80m) per hour.

At least 27 died in Rajasthan.

Prime Minister Naranda Modi said, “Saddened by the loss of lives due to dust storms in various parts of India. Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon.”

BDST: 1435 HRS, MAY 3, 2018
AP