16 Die of Heat-Related Causes in Bihar Hospital

Deaths Occur Within 2 Hours Amid Severe Heatwave?

In Patna, 16 people succumbed to heat-related causes within two hours at the district hospital in Aurangabad, Bihar. On Thursday, the city's maximum temperature reached 44 degrees Celsius. Aurangabad also recorded a state-high of 48.2 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, setting a new record for Bihar.

Visuals showed grieving family members at the hospital. A doctor reported that at least 35 more patients have been admitted due to heat-related causes, but assured that all necessary arrangements are in place.

"We have enough doctors, medicines, and ice packs, and additional coolers have been arranged," he said.

Bihar has been struggling with a severe heatwave, prompting the state government to order the closure of all private and government-run schools, coaching institutes, and anganwadi centers until June 8. This decision came after dozens of students fainted due to the extreme heat.

At least 16 girls fainted at a government school in Sheikhpura district. When an ambulance couldn't be arranged, they were transported to a hospital on two-wheelers and e-rickshaws.

Reports of students fainting also emerged from Begusarai and Jamui.

RJD leader and former deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav criticized the Bihar government and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

"There is no democracy or government in Bihar. There is only bureaucracy. Why is the Chief Minister so weak? The temperature is 47 degrees. Doctors say that children must be protected in such weather conditions. And here, schools are open," he said.

The India Meteorological Department has issued a severe heatwave alert for the next two days in the state.