Bengal to sizzle on poll day, doctors suggest precautionary measures

The third phase of election is going to be held on Thursday in the four districts amidst hot and humid condition, Meteorological department has predicted.

A farmer who has been identified as Swapan Roy died at Kaliagang in Murshidabad on Wednesday due to heat stroke. Police said that Roy was working in a farm land when he suffered a stroke caused by excessive heat. He was immediately rushed to nearby hospital where he died. The doctors said that the victim died after suffering a stroke caused by the heat wave.

In view of the growing level of discomfort, the city doctors are suggesting not to remain in the sun for a prolonged time. If anybody is out there in the sun constantly he/she may fall ill. Hence the physicians are advising to wear cap, sunglasses or use umbrella so that they are not directly exposed in the sun rays. Those who will be in election duties are being advised to carry saline water, ORS with them. As the weather is very humid, poll personnel were suggested to consume drinks as much as they can to prevent dehydration.

According to the Meteorological office, there is no possibility of rain as of now in the city and adjoining districts, which will further complicate the situation. 

The heatwave condition will prevail in the city and various parts of Southern and Western districts, MeT office has alerted.

Voters who will cast their votes in the hot and humid condition have also been asked to take precautionary measures before stepping out of the houses. They have also been advised to cast their votes early in the morning because in the extreme heat during the afternoon people will face problems.

Last polling day, excessive heat claimed the life of a polling personnel at Alipurduar on Sunday. Gopi Chakraborty who was posted as a reserve polling personnel at Kumargram Assembly Constituency died after suffering a heart attack due to heat.

The doctors said that the victim suffered heart attack because of the excessive heat. He was an employee of Cooch Behar Zilla Parishad.

Chief Electoral Officer Sunil Gupta said that Chakraborty was an employee of Cooch Behar Zilla Parishad who was deployed in Alipurduar as a reserve. 

All the district administration in all the four districts ~ Kolkata, Burdwan, Murshidabad and Nadia which will go to poll on Thursday, have made adequate arrangements of water and other necessary items so that polling personnel do not face any problems while discharging their duties.