Thaindian News

Ranchi, May 2 (IANS) A blistering heat wave in Jharkhand claimed 17 lives in the last ten days in different parts of the state including in Ranchi, once the summer capital of Bihar, that was known for its balmy weather, officials said.
The mercury has touched up to 47 degree Celsius at some places in Jharkhand. The temperature in Ranchi has consistently been above 42 degree Celsius, touching

42.7 degrees on April 28. According to the meteorology department, the Ranchi temperature is likely to soar.

The highest temperature of 47 degrees has been recorded in Palamau. In Bokaro, Jamshedpur and Dhanbad, temperatures have remained above 45 degree. In Jamshedpur, the district administration has asked government and private schools to advance summer vacations to May 4. In Ranchi, the parents’ association has demanded closure of schools.

“People of Ranchi are not used to living under such heat conditions. There was a time when the mercury crossed 35 or 36, but the weather was cooled with rain showers. Considering the rising mercury we have demanded closure of the schools,” said Ajay Rai, secretary of Ranchi Parents’ and Guardians’ Association.

The heat waves have claimed 13 lives in different parts of the state. According to an official, seven people died alone in Palamau, followed by four in Garwah, three in Jamshedpur and one each in Ranchi, Dhanbad and Koderma.