The scorching heatwave gripping Sundargarh district has claimed two more lives at Rourkela Government Hospital, pushing the death toll due to suspected heatstroke to 16.
· Across the District, Rourkela bears the brunt of the heatwave crisis, accounting for 10 of the reported deaths, while Jharsuguda and Sundargarh have recorded 2 and 4 deaths respectively.
· Additional District Magistrate of Sundargarh, expressed grave concern over the rising death toll and highlighted ongoing efforts to address the crisis.
· The circumstances surrounding the deaths suggest a potential link to heatstroke, prompting authorities to prioritize medical intervention and preventive measures.
· As Sundargarh grapples with the heatwave’s toll on public health, concerted efforts are underway to mitigate further casualties and safeguard vulnerable communities from the blistering heat.
The scorching heatwave gripping Sundargarh district has claimed two more lives at Rourkela Government Hospital (RGH), pushing the death toll due to suspected heatstroke to 16, with 12 fatalities reported at the hospital alone. The situation remains dire, with an additional 23 patients currently undergoing treatment at RGH.
Rourkela bears the brunt of the heatwave crisis, accounting for 10 of the reported deaths, while Jharsuguda and Sundargarh have recorded 2 and 4 deaths respectively. The escalating number of casualties has prompted authorities to refer 10 patients to Hi-Tech hospital in Bhubaneswar for advanced medical care as their conditions deteriorate.
Ashutosh Kulkarni, Additional District Magistrate of Sundargarh, expressed grave concern over the rising death toll and highlighted ongoing efforts to address the crisis. “Steps are being taken to conduct autopsies on the deceased in the presence of police to ascertain the cause of death,” he stated. Kulkarni also emphasized the importance of seeking medical attention promptly, urging individuals to heed precautions amid the continuing heatwave.
The circumstances surrounding the deaths suggest a potential link to heatstroke, prompting authorities to prioritize medical intervention and preventive measures. “A senior doctor has been tasked with leading the treatment efforts, supported by junior doctors. We have also expanded our facilities to accommodate more patients, if necessary,” Kulkarni elaborated.
Despite efforts to contain the crisis, concerns persist as individuals from various backgrounds, not limited to laborers, are affected. “Some patients experienced symptoms like drowsiness and vomiting even while at home. Strict adherence to safety guidelines, including avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours, is imperative,” Kulkarni emphasized.
As Sundargarh grapples with the heatwave’s toll on public health, concerted efforts are underway to mitigate further casualties and safeguard vulnerable communities from the blistering heat. Authorities remain vigilant, urging proactive measures to combat the adverse effects of the ongoing heatwave.
The tragic loss of lives due to suspected heatstroke underscores the urgent need for coordinated action to address the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions. As Sundargarh mourns the loss of its residents, efforts to bolster healthcare infrastructure and enhance public awareness about heat wave precautions are crucial in preventing further tragedies.
(With inputs from agencies)
