Prayagraj: With the heatwave continuing relentlessly, the Sangam City on Thursday once again recorded the highest temperature in the state at 44.4 degrees Celsius, making it the second hottest location in the country after Sri Ganganagar in Rajasthan.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the minimum temperature stood at 24.8 degrees Celsius, 0.8 units above normal. Weather experts have indicated that similar conditions are likely to persist in the coming days.
Health Precautions and Medical Arrangements
Doctors have urged citizens to take all necessary precautions against heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses. The health department has established cool rooms at all government health units, including community health centers. Residents are advised to avoid going outdoors between 12 noon and 4 pm.
A senior health official noted that while few cases of heat-related illnesses have been reported at government health units, cases of itching and other skin ailments related to heat are more common. He cautioned citizens, particularly children and the elderly, to take maximum care during the ongoing summer season.
As temperatures continue to soar, health authorities have set up cold rooms at government hospitals, including community and primary health centers, and have reserved beds to treat patients suffering from heat-related illnesses. Ensuring 24x7 power supply is also a priority. The department has launched an extensive awareness campaign to educate the public about dos and don'ts in view of the rising atmospheric temperature.
Municipal and Water Supply Measures
To tackle the heat, municipal authorities have set up shade points at prominent crossings and intersections. Additionally, the Jal Nigam authorities are installing water kiosks at static points.
Medical units are setting up Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) counters and ensuring the availability of ice packs.
Prayagraj Chief Medical Officer Dr. A K Tiwari told TOI, "In view of rising temperatures and heatwave conditions, special arrangements have been made at all health units." He added, "The process of setting up cold rooms is underway at all community health centers after reserving beds for patients suffering from heat-related illnesses, if any."
Electrical Audits and Awareness Campaigns
A health official said, "An electrical audit of hospitals, including community health centers, is being conducted in view of the summer season. Teams are checking all electrical equipment, wiring, and other arrangements at hospitals. Posters have been put up at hospitals and other static locations in the district to create awareness about heat-related precautions."
Health officials on Thursday issued a set of advisories appealing to residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses.
State Heat Action Plan
State authorities have also released the Uttar Pradesh State Heat Action Plan with the slogan 'Haaregi Garmi - Jeetega Pradesh'. The plan elaborates on symptoms of heatstroke, such as high core body temperature, extreme dehydration, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, severe headache, delirium, hot or dry skin, or in some cases heavy sweating, along with rapid, shallow breathing.
Those exposed to heat are advised to rest, avoid tea, coffee, and liquor, cut down on exercise, eat fresh fruits, drink ample water, bathe regularly, wear loose clothing, check outdoor time, and take special care of children and the elderly.
