New Delhi is grappling with a severe heatwave that has tragically claimed the lives of at least 20 individuals in the past 48 hours alone, according to official reports. This distressing figure includes fatalities recorded across both central government and Delhi government-run hospitals, highlighting the widespread impact of the extreme weather conditions.
Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital (DDUH) in west Delhi has been particularly overwhelmed, receiving the bodies of 27 unknown or destitute persons within the same period. Many of these deaths are suspected to be directly linked to the relentless heatwave sweeping through the city. Other Delhi government hospitals have also reported an additional 25 such fatalities, indicating a critical situation across healthcare facilities. RML Hospital, another prominent healthcare institution in the capital, has confirmed four heat-related deaths in the past two days alone. This includes two fatalities occurring within hours on Wednesday morning, underscoring the urgency of the situation. Concurrently, Safdarjung Hospital reported the deaths of a woman from Sangam Vihar and a man from Noida, bringing its total heat-related fatalities to six. Both patients exhibited severe symptoms upon admission and succumbed shortly after. The gravity of the crisis is further underscored by the admission of 21 new patients at these hospitals on Wednesday alone, revealing the acute strain on medical resources amidst rising temperatures. Lok Nayak Hospital, which earlier reported two heatstroke-related deaths, has since recorded an additional six fatalities, contributing significantly to the overall toll.
Distressingly, data reveals that 52 individuals were declared dead upon arrival at various healthcare facilities under the Delhi government’s jurisdiction in the past two days, with DDUH bearing the brunt of such cases. Medical authorities and public health experts are urging residents to take precautions against the heatwave, emphasizing hydration and avoiding outdoor activities during peak daytime temperatures. The Delhi government has initiated measures to mitigate the impact, including the deployment of additional medical personnel and the provision of emergency services. As Delhi continues to grapple with the heatwave crisis, efforts are intensifying to ensure swift medical response and community awareness to prevent further loss of life in the city.
