Almost two weeks into March, the scorching heat has thrown normal life out of gear in Punalur, one of the hottest places in the state. While the heat is still at its peak, residents say that the weather has become extremely unbearable, which is forcing them to stay indoors.
The roads remain more or less deserted for a long time due to the increase in heat-related incidents. The IMD had issued an alert predicting an increase of 2 to 3 degrees Celsius in maximum temperatures in various districts, including Kollam, on Saturday and Sunday.
As the mercury level in Punalur was seen crossing the 38.7 degree Celsius mark, residents are facing scorching heat.
after 5 pm
“We step out only when it is necessary and work after 5 pm. Fans are spinning all the time and low income families are left with no option but to buy air coolers and conditioners.
Stepping outside is a risk as people are getting burns and blisters,” says Krishnakumar, a resident. While a section may survive exposure to sunlight, vendors, auto drivers and delivery persons bear the brunt. Since very few people go out in the scorching heat, street vendors have hardly any customers and those selling refreshments are also struggling to survive.
core business
“Our core business is daytime and we are working hard to recover from the damage caused by the pandemic. At present everyone prefers air conditioned places and my business has dropped by more than 75%. There are no customers in the eateries other than the random motorists,” says Babu, who sells coconuts.
One of the many street vendors selling seasonal fruits and drinks along the road, he says it is very difficult to handle the weather this time. According to auto driver Thomas, many people are developing health issues in the rising temperatures.
“I recently recovered from COVID-19 and am still suffering from extreme fatigue and shortness of breath. The number of passengers is very less since the second week of March. ”, he says.
Meanwhile, health officials have advised migrant labourers, farmers, persons working hard in open spaces, headload workers and two-wheeler riders to be extra vigilant to avoid sunburn and dehydration.
“We are seeing increasing number of cases of heat rash and fatigue from Punalur and adjoining areas. We are expecting more heat-related incidents in the coming days and at present all arrangements are in place to deal with the situation,” says an official.