The heat wave is proving fatal this year as it has claimed 26 lives so far. Of them, 20 cases were reported from Rourkela alone, informed Director of Public Health Dr Nilakantha Mishra on Monday.
Most of the cases are being reported from Sundargarh and Jharsuguda districts where mining activities are higher compared to other districts. Of the total 26 heatstroke cases, 20 were reported from Rourkela in Sundargarh district. In Rourkela, some patients had already died before being shifted to hospitals, said Dr Mishra.
Meanwhile, post-mortem on some bodies is being carried out and a joint enquiry into the unnatural deaths has also been launched. Then they will submit a final report to us. At present, some heatstroke patients are undergoing treatment in different hospitals. So, the district Collectors and the Chief District Medical Officers (CDMOs) have been asked to remain alert.
“With mercury coming down due to intermittent showers, the heat wave situation has abated a bit. Yet, all have been asked to keep their powder dry because heat wave warnings have been issued for the coming days. So, as long as there are warnings the people should be alert and the administration is also ready,” added Dr Mishra.