Odisha govt confirms 5 heatstroke deaths; probe on into 18 others

“Sundargarh and Jharsuguda districts reported 12 and 6 alleged heatstroke deaths, respectively. A post-mortem is being conducted,” said Sahu.

On Thursday, at least 10 people were suspected to have died of heat-related illness within a six hours at the Rourkela Government Hospital (RGH). Two more deaths were reported late night, said official sources.

According to senior officials, at least 10 heatstroke patients are undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Rourkela, while 23 others are being treated at the RGH. Their condition is reportedly stable.

Meanwhile, the government has sent a team of senior doctors to Sundargarh district to assess the situation and recommend steps to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicated heatwave may continue for five more days in Odisha.

“People are advised to take precautionary measures for hot weather while going outside between 11 am and 3 pm. They should cover their heads or use a wet cloth, hat or umbrella, drink sufficient water,” Sahu said.

He added that workers should reschedule strenuous jobs to cooler times in the day, and to increase the frequency and length of rest breaks between outdoor activities.

At 19 weather stations in Jharsuguda, Titlagarh, Bargarh, Sambalpur, Malkangiri, Sonepur, Bhawanipatna, Bolangir, Hirakud, Rourkela, Nuapada, Boudh, Sundargarh, Phulbani, Angul, Talcher, Keonjhar, Paralakhemundi and Rayagada, temperatures of above 40°C were recorded during the day.