BALLIA, India (AP) — A scorching heat wave in two of India’s most populous states has led to a surge in hospitalizations, overflowing morgues, and power disruptions. The death toll has risen to nearly 170, prompting officials to launch an investigation.
In Uttar Pradesh, 119 people have died from heat-related illnesses in the past few days, while Bihar state has reported 47 fatalities. The situation has been so severe that hospitals are struggling to accommodate more patients. The morgue in Ballia district, Uttar Pradesh, is full after 54 elderly individuals with various health issues succumbed to the heat wave. Some families were asked to take the bodies of their loved ones home.
The state health minister, Brajesh Pathak, has announced the formation of a two-member team to investigate the cause of the high number of deaths and determine how many are directly linked to the heat. Temperatures in northern India have been consistently above normal, reaching highs of 43.5 degrees Celsius (110 degrees Fahrenheit). The Indian Meteorological Department has issued heat wave warnings for the region.
Despite the warnings, the government did not advise people to prepare for the heat until Sunday, when the death toll began to rise. Power outages have compounded the situation, leaving many without access to running water, fans, or air conditioners.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has assured the public that the government is taking measures to ensure an uninterrupted power supply and has urged citizens to use electricity judiciously. However, inside the Ballia district hospital, chaos reigns as families and doctors scramble to provide urgent treatment to patients. The lack of functioning air conditioners and power fluctuations have made the situation worse. Staff members are using books to fan patients and keep them cool.
Severe cases are being transferred to hospitals in larger cities, such as Varanasi, and additional doctors and resources are being sent to the district hospital to handle the crisis. Climate experts emphasize the need for better preparation in dealing with heat waves and the long-term effects of climate change. Public awareness campaigns, cooling centers, and healthcare assistance are critical components of heat wave management.
India must prioritize these plans to minimize the impact of heat waves on communities and save lives.
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