Karnataka Government Issues Health Advisory Due to Rising Temperatures

Rising temperature in summer: Parts of Bangalore have been experiencing drought-like conditions as most areas are grappling with water scarcity.

OpEd Desk March 4, 2024

Rising temperature in summer: Amidst rising temperatures across the state, the Health and Family Welfare Department of Karnataka has issued a public health advisory for vulnerable populations. The government has urged people to remain extra cautious as the temperatures are expected to remain high for the next few days.

According to a report by Deccan Herald, the department has advised people to stay hydrated and consume fluids to prevent dehydration. It is recommended for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, individuals with mental and physical health issues, and the elderly to remain extra vigilant during such extreme temperatures. They are advised to protect their heads from direct sunlight and use oral rehydration solution (ORS) if necessary.

04ನೇ ಮಾರ್ಚ್ 2024 ರಂತೆ #ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ರಾಜ್ಯದಲ್ಲಿ ದಾಖಲಾದ ಗರಿಷ್ಠ ತಾಪಮಾನದ ವರದಿ.
A report on maximum temperatures recorded over #Karnataka state as of 04th March 2024. pic.twitter.com/gPUVChlIiC

— Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (@KarnatakaSNDMC) March 4, 2024

Parts of Bangalore have been experiencing drought-like conditions as most areas are grappling with water scarcity. With the state severely affected by drought, borewells in the city are running dry, and many residents now depend on tankers for water supply.

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There are also allegations that some tanker operators in Bangalore are exploiting the water tanker crisis and extorting exorbitant amounts from residents. The price of a 1000-liter water tanker, which used to cost between ₹600 to ₹800, has now surged to over ₹2000. Most apartments rely on these water suppliers as there is no alternative.

Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, Dr. C. N. Ashwath Narayan, announced on Saturday that the state government would take control of private water tankers in Bangalore in light of the serious water shortage.

He said, “There is a severe water shortage in Bangalore. Officials from BWSSB (Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board) and BBMP (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike) are holding daily meetings to resolve this issue.”