Odisha Govt Confirms 1 Heatwave Death In Balasore, Announces Rs 50,000 Assistance

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Saturday announced that ex gratia assistance of Rs 50,000 will be paid to the family of any person who dies due to heatwave.

This was decided after a review meeting by Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) on heatwave condition in various districts.

It was revealed at the meeting that the government has received reports of 20 deaths allegedly due to heatwave in the state. One death case has been confirmed from Balasore district so far.

While the collectors are inquiring into the rest cases in their respective districts, the meeting decided that ex gratia of Rs 50,000 will be paid to the bereaved families in case of death due to heatwave.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that hot weather conditions are likely to prevail in some districts with maximum temperature going above the normal temperature by 4-7 degree Celsius at a few places during next three days. Thereafter, hot and discomfort weather is likely during the next 3-4 days.

People have been advised to take precautionary measures like avoiding heat exposure during peak hours, staying hydrated and caring for vulnerable persons including old, children, sick and pregnant women.