Heatwave: Nine on election duty die in UP’s Mirzapur

PTC Web Desk: A severe heatwave in Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh has led to the tragic death of nine Home Guards deployed for election duty, with over 16 others in critical condition. The soaring temperatures have caused heatstroke and dehydration, resulting in severe illness among people. 

Notably, personnel from various districts have been deployed to Mirzapur for election duty scheduled for June 1. However, prior to their deployment, six Home Guards, a clerk, a consolidation officer, and a bus conductor succumbed to the extreme heat. At least 16 persons have been hospitalised, with four in serious condition.

Polling parties were dispatched on Friday under the scorching sun, leading to multiple cases of heat-related illnesses among the staff. Home guards from other districts are particularly affected. Among the deceased are Shivpujan Srivastava and Bachcha Ram, both aged 50. Umesh Kumar, a consolidation officer, fell critically ill and died on way to the hospital. Bus conductor Avinash Pandey, aged 55, also died due to the extreme heat.

Five additional home guards from other districts also died due to heatstroke. The deceased include Satyaprakash (52), Ram Jiyawan Yadav (50), Tribhuvan Singh (50), and Ramkaran (55). All bodies have been sent for a post-mortem examinations.

Meanwhile, DM Priyanka Niranjan has assured that optimal medical care instructions have been given for those affected. She expressed grief over the deaths of three administration staff members. Superintendent of Police (SP) Abhinandan confirmed the deaths of six home guards, two from Gonda, one from Prayagraj, and one from Mirzapur. Their family members have been informed.

Also Read: Delhi records 52.9°C, Nagpur sizzles at 56°C; IMD issues heat warning