Heatwave Intensifies in Delhi-NCR, Hospitals Overwhelmed with Heatstroke Cases
As the mercury relentlessly soars in the national capital, Delhi-NCR hospitals are witnessing a surge in patients suffering from heat-related illnesses. Hospitals have been instructed to prioritize the admission and treatment of heatstroke cases.
On Wednesday, the government-run LNJP Hospital reported two fatalities due to heatstroke within the past week. Currently, nine patients are being treated at the hospital, four of whom are on ventilators due to critical conditions. Timely medical intervention is crucial, as heatstroke can lead to multiple organ failure.
The heatwave has gripped North and Northwest India, while Delhi faces the added challenge of a severe water shortage. Delhi Water Minister Atishi has threatened to initiate an indefinite strike from June 21 if the crisis remains unresolved.
Key Developments Related to Heatwave in India
Fatalities and Hospitalizations
Delhi has reported at least four heatstroke deaths so far.n LNJP Hospital has reported two fatalities, while Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and Safdarjung Hospital have reported one each.n Most affected individuals are laborers or rickshaw pullers above 60 years of age.
Government Directives
Union Health Minister JP Nadda has mandated all central government hospitals to prioritize the admission and treatment of heatstroke patients and establish dedicated heatwave units.n Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj has instructed hospitals to increase bed capacity for patients with heat-related illnesses.
Additional Measures
The Health Ministry will request the Delhi Police Commissioner to have patrolling teams call ambulances for individuals exhibiting high fever.n The police will also be tasked with transferring homeless individuals to shelters if found exposed to the elements.n Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport's operations have been impacted due to heatwave conditions.
Water Crisis in Delhi
Delhi Water Minister Atishi has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the city's water crisis.n Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini has denied allegations of withholding Delhi's water share.
Power Consumption and Weather Conditions
Massive electricity consumption amid the heatwave has pushed Delhi's peak power demand to an all-time high of 8,656 MW.n Northwest India has received significantly less rainfall than normal since the monsoon onset.n Delhi experienced its warmest night in 12 years on Wednesday, with minimum temperatures reaching 35.2 degrees Celsius.
National Disaster Management Authority Guidelines
The National Disaster Management Authority has issued guidelines to minimize the risks of heat-related illnesses:
Avoid exposure to the sun between 12 noon and 3 pm.n Drink ample fluids.n Engage in strenuous activities during cooler hours.n Limit high-protein intake.
