Patna: The intense heatwave and scorching temperatures continue to wreak havoc across Bihar, with most districts experiencing temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius. Concerned about the deadly heat, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has issued several directives to the District Magistrates to ensure proper measures are taken.
CM Nitish Kumar’s Directives:
The Chief Minister has urged all District Magistrates to ensure an adequate number of water tankers are available at sensitive locations. Additionally, he has instructed them to arrange for public announcements advising people on how to stay safe during the heatwave. He also emphasized the need for all primary health centers, sub-divisional hospitals, and district hospitals to be fully equipped with necessary medical facilities. Moreover, he has directed the continuous and uninterrupted supply of electricity in both urban and rural areas.
Guidelines to All Departments: Chief Secretary
Chief Secretary Brajesh Mehrotra stated that all relevant departments have been instructed to take preventive and remedial actions against the extreme heat. Public appeals for caution and provisions for treatment and relief have been issued. The health department, in particular, has been directed to ensure all primary hospitals to medical college hospitals are prepared to treat heat-related illnesses. Separate wards, treatment facilities, ORS solutions, and air conditioning have been mandated, with regular monitoring in place.
Ensuring Potable Water:
Mehrotra mentioned that the Public Health Engineering Department has been tasked with ensuring the availability of drinking water. All hand pumps are to be repaired, and in areas without functional hand pumps, water is to be provided via tankers. The Urban Development Department and district administration have been instructed to set up water kiosks in urban areas. Similarly, the Animal Husbandry Department has been directed to ensure the health and well-being of livestock.
Public Awareness and Monitoring:
The Information and Public Relations Department is actively spreading awareness about precautionary measures. The Disaster Management Department is conducting regular monitoring. Families of those who have died due to the heatwave are being provided with ex-gratia assistance.
Heatwave Impact:
Over the past few days, temperatures have been rising steadily across most districts, exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. The extreme heat and hot winds have resulted in several fatalities. On Thursday alone, 75 people succumbed to the heat in 15 districts, with the death toll continuing to rise on Friday.
