Crematorium in Northern Indian Town Overflows During Heatwave

As a heatwave continues to devastate parts of India, a crematorium in the northern town of Ballia is filling up with bodies. According to a Hindu priest who performs last rites, the number of corpses brought to the crematorium from the River Ganges has doubled in the past week. The cause of the recent surge in deaths is currently being investigated by S.K. Yadav, the chief medical superintendent for Ballia’s main district hospital, which has seen a spike in admissions recently. At least 80 deaths have so far been recorded since June 15th due to temperatures that have soared to nearly 45 degrees Celsius.
The devastating deaths in Ballia have been attributed to a heatwave by a now-replaced district health official, however, the cause remains under investigation. Elsewhere in India, at least 50 people have died due to heat-related illnesses in Bihar state. The frequency and severity of heatwaves in northern India are increasing due to the effects of climate change, leaving nearly 90% of Indians vulnerable to public health issues, food shortages, and an increased risk of death, according to a study by the University of Cambridge.
State Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to purchase additional power if needed in order to avoid unnecessary power cuts. As the country continues to experience extreme weather conditions due to climate change, officials are being urged to take bold action to mitigate the impact on human lives.