Rourkela, Sundargarh – The death toll from suspected heatstroke in Sundargarh district has risen to 16, with two more patients succumbing at the Rourkela Government Hospital (RGH) last night. This brings the total number of deaths at RGH to 12, contributing to the alarming rise in heat-related fatalities in the district.
Authorities have transferred critically ill patients to Hi-Tech Hospital in Bhubaneswar as a precautionary measure. Sundargarh Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Ashutosh Kulkarni reported that 23 patients are currently receiving treatment at RGH, where their conditions are stable. The hospital has expanded its capacity to accommodate any potential increase in patient numbers.
More Read
In response to the critical situation, another ten patients have been referred to Hi-Tech Medical Hospital in Bhubaneswar for advanced care. “Five patients were sent to Bhubaneswar yesterday, and five more were transferred overnight,” Kulkarni added.
Overnight, we recorded two more deaths, bringing the total fatalities to 16 in the district. Yesterday, eight individuals were brought in deceased, and we are in the process of conducting autopsies in the presence of police to determine the exact causes of death,” ADM Kulkarni said.
In response to the critical situation, another ten patients have been referred to Hi-Tech Medical Hospital in Bhubaneswar for advanced care. “Five patients were sent to Bhubaneswar yesterday, and five more were transferred overnight,” Kulkarni added.
While the primary suspicion is heatstroke, definitive causes will be confirmed following thorough medical examinations. Kulkarni emphasized the urgent need for preventive measures as the heatwave continues. “A senior doctor has been assigned to lead the treatment team at RGH, and extra rooms have been set up for additional patients. We strongly advise all residents, particularly laborers, to remain indoors and avoid working during peak heat hours.“
The ADM noted that not all victims were engaged in outdoor labor; some had been at home when they began experiencing severe symptoms like drowsiness and vomiting. “We are implementing strict regulations to prevent outdoor labor during the hottest parts of the day,” he affirmed.
As Sundargarh grapples with this crisis, the district administration remains vigilant, urging the public to take necessary precautions and adhere to guidelines aimed at mitigating the impact of the heatwave. The situation is being closely monitored, with healthcare resources mobilized to manage the influx of patients and prevent further tragedies.
