A relentless heatwave sweeping across Jharkhand has triggered growing alarm after another suspected heat-related death was reported in Jamshedpur on Friday, marking the third such incident in the city within just two days.
The latest victim, an unidentified woman, reportedly collapsed near the Bagbera Station Town Outpost while standing by the roadside and drinking water. Eyewitnesses said the woman suddenly lost consciousness, prompting locals to rush to her assistance.
Residents attempted to revive her by pouring water on her face, but she allegedly died before medical help could reach the spot.
Police personnel later arrived at the scene, recovered the body and launched an investigation. Officials said efforts are underway to establish the identity of the deceased.
The incident follows another suspected heatwave fatality reported on Dimna Road a day earlier. In that case, a man reportedly collapsed in public and was taken to Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.
While authorities have not officially confirmed heatstroke as the cause behind either death, health experts believe prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures may have contributed significantly.
As temperatures continue to soar, the India Meteorological Department has issued a Yellow Alert for Jamshedpur and surrounding districts until May 24, warning of persistent heatwave conditions.
In response to the worsening situation, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Friday directed officials across the state to ensure immediate relief measures for the public.
Stressing the need for a “humanitarian and sensitive approach,” he instructed district administrations to arrange adequate drinking water facilities outside government offices and at public locations.
Soren also ordered authorities to deploy water tankers in scarcity-hit areas, repair non-functional hand pumps and ensure uninterrupted access to drinking water in villages and urban localities alike.
Meanwhile, intense heat, humidity and hot winds have disrupted normal life across Jharkhand, including in Ranchi, where daytime temperatures are steadily climbing.
Weather officials have warned that conditions could worsen further with the onset of the traditional “Nautapa” period beginning May 25, a phase associated with peak summer temperatures across northern and eastern India.
Frequent night-time power cuts in several areas have added to residents’ discomfort, leaving many struggling without cooling facilities amid oppressive weather conditions.
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