Today, May 31st, reports confirm a distressing toll of over 40 suspected heat-related deaths across several states in India, with Uttar Pradesh and Bihar bearing the brunt as scorching temperatures persist.
Uttar Pradesh and Bihar alone accounted for 25 casualties, with 17 and 14 deaths respectively. Odisha reported 10 deaths, followed by Jharkhand with 4, and Rajasthan with 5 fatalities. The situation remains critical, with over 1,300 individuals hospitalized in Jharkhand alone due to heatstroke conditions.
The heatwave has exacerbated water scarcity issues, particularly in Delhi, where residents endure long queues to secure their daily water needs. Vibha Devi from Geeta Colony lamented, “I stand in line from 4 am, but due to the crowd, I cannot reach the water tanker… It’s hard to get water.”
Meteorological records reveal alarming temperatures, with Kanpur recording a scorching 48.2 degrees Celsius, making it the hottest place in the country. Haryana’s Sirsa follows closely at 47.8 degrees Celsius, while Delhi’s Ayanagar registered a peak temperature of 47 degrees Celsius.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) warns of severe heatwave conditions prevailing over several states, including Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh, with relief expected in the coming days.
Tragically, the heatwave claimed the lives of 15 election staff in Uttar Pradesh, just ahead of crucial polls. Mirzapur’s Maa Vindhyavasini Autonomous State Medical College confirmed 13 deaths, including home guard jawans, sanitation workers, and administrative staff, due to suspected heatstroke.
In Bihar, fourteen people, including election officials, succumbed to heatstroke in the past two days, further complicating the electoral process. Authorities have taken preventive measures, shutting down schools, coaching institutes, and Anganwadi centers until June 8th.
The situation in Odisha and Jharkhand remains dire, with confirmed sunstroke-related deaths and numerous hospitalizations. Medical facilities are on high alert, with provisions made for heatstroke patients.
Despite these grim conditions, there’s a glimmer of hope as the Southwest Monsoon begins its advance into northeastern regions, offering potential relief from the relentless heatwave.
