192 Homeless People Dies Due To Heatwave in National Capital: NGO Report (image-twitter/@caanupam7)
As per the study by the NGO Centre for Holistic Development, a total of 192 homeless people died due to heat waves in Delhi between June 11 to June 19. The organization highlighted air pollution, rapid industrialization, urbanization, and deforestation have resulted in rising temperatures which worsened the living conditions of the homeless. Notably, five people died in Delhi in the past 72 hours. The victims lost their lives due to heatstroke at three hospitals.
The report stated it is the highest number of deaths recorded in the said period. “This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for proactive measures to protect one of society’s most vulnerable groups”, said the executive director of the NGO, Sunil Kumar Aledia.
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Aledia further highlighted that the homeless also faced challenges such as access to clean drinking water, thereby increasing the risk of dehydration and health-related complications.
According to the health department, in Noida, more than 14 people died in the last 24 hours due to suspected heat stroke. The study shows that homeless people account for 80 percent of the unclaimed bodies of the people who died due to heatwaves.
In the past 48 hours alone, the mortal remains of 50 people were recovered amid the severe heatwave. The police are yet to confirm whether the real cause of death was due to heat stroke.
Aledia, the executive director highlighted that despite the challenges, homeless people find themselves excluded from government welfare programs such as Deen Dayal National Urban Livelihood Mission and the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
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“The absence of intermediary housing options or financial assistance leaves many with no choice but to live on the streets,” Aledia said.
“Solutions should include establishing cooling centres, ensuring adequate shelter capacity, distributing water, and addressing the underlying causes of homelessness through supportive housing and services,” he added.
As per the Business Today report, the state-run RML Hospital received 22 patients in the last two days. There have been five deaths and 12-13 patients are on ventilator support.
