Rising Death Toll
A Deadly heatwave has claimed the lives of more than 50 people in India over the past three days. The northern state of Uttar Pradesh reported around 33 deaths over the weekend due to the extreme heat.
Odisha Suffers
In Odisha, approximately 20 people have succumbed to heat stroke, according to an official statement to the ANI news agency. These fatalities occurred primarily on June 1, coinciding with the last phase of polling for India’s general election.
Election Complications
As India holds its general elections every five years during the hot months of April and May, this year’s record-breaking temperatures have intensified the situation. The federal health ministry confirmed at least 56 heat stroke deaths between March 1 and May 30, with nearly 25,000 cases reported.
State-Wise Impact
In Uttar Pradesh, several volunteer policemen, polling officials, security guards, and sanitation staff were among the victims. Chief Electoral Officer Navdeep Rinwa announced a compensation of 1.5 million rupees for the families of the deceased election personnel.
Odisha’s Crisis
Odisha’s district authorities reported 99 suspected heat stroke deaths in the last 72 hours, with 20 cases confirmed. Similar heat-related fatalities have been reported in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Jharkhand, highlighting the widespread impact of the heatwave.
National Health Alert
The National Centre for Disease Control in India describes heat strokes as a “life-threatening” condition with a high mortality rate. The unrelenting heat, with temperatures soaring up to 50C in some areas, has caused severe water and electricity shortages. However, the weather department predicts a possible drop in temperatures with the onset of the monsoon
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