Heatwave Claims Lives in India as Temperatures Soar Near 50°C.

By Caroline Ameh

A devastating heatwave sweeping across India has claimed the lives of at least 15 individuals, with temperatures nearing a scorching 50°C (122°F) in several regions. The extreme heat has particularly impacted the country’s sprawling urban areas, raising concerns about a burgeoning public health crisis.

In Varanasi, Friday ,images emerged of hospital staff desperately pouring water on patients suffering from heat stroke as the mercury soared to unprecedented levels.

Government hospitals have been inundated with cases of heat-related ailments, with fatalities reported in multiple states including Odisha, Bihar, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, and the national capital, Delhi.

Tragically, ten persons have died of heat-related conditions at a government hospital in Odisha’s Rourkela region, according to authorities. In Bihar’s Bhojpur district, three election officers and a policeman tragically lost their lives due to heat stroke on what officials described as the hottest day. The district magistrate, Mahendra Kumar, lamented the loss, highlighting the challenges faced even with medical facilities available.

Furthermore, hospitals are grappling with a surge in admissions due to heat-related illnesses. In Delhi, a laborer admitted with heat stroke tragically passed away while receiving treatment, underscoring the severity of the situation.

The scorching temperatures, persisting for over two weeks in northern, central, and parts of western India, have exacerbated water and electricity shortages, leading to additional challenges for residents. Forest fires have also surged, prompting authorities to employ drones for monitoring in regions like Jammu and Kashmir.

Videos circulating on social media depict residents in Delhi clamoring for water from tankers amidst frequent power cuts, indicative of the strain on essential services. Meanwhile, officials are investigating a recorded temperature of 52.9°C in the Mungeshpur area to determine if it resulted from a sensor malfunction.

Experts warn that heatwaves in India are becoming longer, more intense, and frequent, exacerbating the toll on public health and the economy. A study conducted by India’s National Centre for Disease Control highlighted the life-threatening nature of heat strokes, with mortality rates ranging from 40 to 64%.