New Delhi: As Delhi grapples with an intense heatwave, the number of casualties due to heat-related illnesses continues to rise. According to official reports, at least 34 deaths linked to heat-related illnesses have been reported in the capital city so far. This figure includes both confirmed cases of heat stroke and suspected heat-related fatalities.310 patients admitted to hospitalsIn the past 48 hours alone, Delhi government hospitals have admitted 310 patients suffering from heat-related illnesses, out of which 14 have succumbed to their conditions. Shockingly, 27 patients were declared dead on arrival at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, mostly comprising homeless individuals brought in by bystanders. The sudden surge in such cases over the last two days has prompted authorities to initiate post-mortem examinations to ascertain the exact cause of death.Suspected cases of heat-stroke deaths The situation has prompted Delhi hospitals to categorize these deaths as suspected cases of heat-stroke deaths until the three-member panel, promised by the Delhi government, can determine the precise cause at all hospitals across the city.Several fatalities occured in 48 hours Among the major hospitals, Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital and Safdarjung Hospital have reported nine heat-related deaths each since the onset of the heatwave last month. At RML, seven fatalities occurred in the last 48 hours, while Safdarjung reported five deaths on Wednesday alone. Additionally, two more deaths have been recorded at Lok Nayak Hospital in the past week due to the scorching temperatures.J P Nadda issued directive to hospitals Initially reporting five heatstroke deaths, Safdarjung Hospital revised the count to two, citing alternative diagnoses received later in the day. In response to the escalating crisis, Union Health Minister J P Nadda issued a directive to hospitals, urging priority treatment for patients admitted due to heatwave-related illnesses.Situation may improve The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had earlier issued a red alert for North India, including Delhi, cautioning about severe heat conditions. However, the IMD forecasts that the situation may improve as a western disturbance approaches northwest India, potentially easing temperatures by Thursday.Delhi experienced 49 degrees Celsius Delhi has experienced exceptionally high temperatures this year, with the mercury soaring to 49 degrees Celsius. On Tuesday, the city recorded its warmest night in over a decade, with minimum temperatures remaining at 35.2 degrees Celsius—eight degrees above the seasonal average. The persistently high temperatures, fueled by dry and warm westerly winds from Rajasthan and southern Haryana, have also resulted in tap water remaining hot throughout the day and night.The Delhi government and medical authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as efforts intensify to mitigate the impact of the ongoing heatwave on the citys residents.
