Scorching heatwave

Scorching heatwave continues to sweep Kashmir valley and there is no respite from it yet. The intestine heatwave has affected normal life in several parts of the country. In Kashmir the present weather conditions are creating problems at various levels.

Advisories have been issued by the government departments on what to do and what not to do in the heatwave conditions. It is being hoped that the advisories are followed by the people to protect themselves from the scorching heat.

Extra care has to be taken for children, elderly and ailing persons during the heatwave. Reports said the heat wave will occur next month also. All required steps must be taken at the official and non-official levels to deal with the problems emerging due to the heatwave. Amid the heatwave there are reports of power cuts and shortage of drinking water in several areas.

The power cuts must be curtailed in the scorching heat. Adequate availability of electricity must be there so that people do not face problems. Scarcity of drinking water is another cause of concern. At a time when more water is consumed, its shortage complicates the problem. The adequate water supply must be made available.

Secondly, the water should be safe for drinking purpose. There are reports of safe water not being supplied to some areas. Clean drinking water must be supplied through taps in all areas of city, towns and villages. Consumption of unsafe water causes water borne diseases. The water supplied must be filtered properly and should undergo all required procedures to make it safe for drinking.

Availability of fresh fruits and vegetables must be ensured in the markets. The shopkeepers selling substandard fruits and vegetables need to be tackled sternly. There are reports of very stale or rotten fruits and vegetables being sold at some places.

Market checking by the concerned government department teams must be a regular practice these days to stop this malpractice. The people must follow the advice of health experts in such weather conditions.