Heat takes a toll on pushkaram staff

August 21, 2016 12:00 am | Updated 10:19 am IST - GUNTUR:

Oppressive heat conditions for the last few days have taken a toll on the personnel deputed for the Krishna Pushkarams. With mercury levels soaring to above 40 degree Celsius, most of the staff on duty at the pushkarams have been complaining of dehydration and sun stroke.

A woman police constable has collapsed after complaining of dehydration prompting the Guntur urban police to initiate certain steps like providing buttermilk, erecting tents for the personnel on duty along the approach road. While the weather was moderately pleasant in the days before the pushkarams which began on August 12, it turned hot right from the day one. The hot weather conditions prompted the police to relax the traffic regulations and allow RTC buses to take pilgrims right up to the ghat at Seethanagaram.

On Friday and Saturday, the day temperatures soared to above 40 degree Celsius putting the personnel to tremendous strain.

Medical and Health Department personnel said that at least 50 per cent of the cases reported at various medical camps have been related to heat and dehydration.

“Prolonged exposure to heat and sun will have an impact on all organs in the body. Some of the consequences may be fatal and many personnel have already complained of dizziness, reeling sensation and a spike in blood pressure,” said Gade Ravindra, a physician at the medical camp at Seethanagaram.

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