Deadly Heat Wave Sweeps Through India
NEW DELHI — A scorching heat wave has claimed the lives of more than 50 people in India over the past three days, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake.
Around 33 individuals perished in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh over the weekend, succumbing to the relentless heat. Among the victims were individuals involved in the crucial general election, including polling officials, security guards, and sanitation staff – Saturday marked the final phase of voting.
In Odisha (Orissa) state, approximately 20 people fell victim to heat stroke, as confirmed by officials.
Typically held in the summer months of April and May, India’s general election has been overshadowed by unprecedented temperatures this year, with the country grappling with frequent, intense, and prolonged heatwaves.
The federal health ministry has reported at least 56 confirmed heat stroke deaths between March 1 and May 30, with a staggering 24,849 cases of heatstroke during this period.
However, state-specific data indicates that the actual toll may be significantly higher.
In Odisha, district authorities recorded 99 suspected heat stroke fatalities in the past 72 hours, with 20 cases confirmed, according to the state’s Special Relief Commissioner.
Navdeep Rinwa, chief electoral officer of Uttar Pradesh, announced that families of deceased election personnel would receive a compensation of 1.5m rupees ($18,000; £14,000).
Mr. Rinwa recounted a harrowing incident where a voter collapsed while waiting in line to cast their ballot due to the oppressive heat, ultimately succumbing to the extreme temperatures upon arrival at a medical facility.
Suspected heat-related deaths have also been documented in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Jharkhand.
India’s National Centre for Disease Control classifies heat strokes as a “life-threatening” condition with a mortality rate ranging from 40-64%.
The unrelenting heat in northern and central India, along with parts of the west, has seen maximum temperatures lingering around 45-46C for an extended period, with some areas even reaching a staggering 50C.
Fortunately, relief may be on the horizon as India’s weather department predicts a drop in temperatures in the upcoming days with the onset of the monsoon.
However, severe water and electricity shortages are plaguing several regions due to increased power consumption, with distressing videos from the capital city of Delhi showcasing individuals clamoring for water from tankers amidst frequent power cuts. — BBC
