Heat wave sweeping through north Karnataka

Several parts of north Karnataka are in the grip of a severe heat wave with people sizzling under temperatures touching 42 degrees.

North Karnataka districts including Gulbarga, Bijapur, Rachur, Bagalkot, Bellary and Koppal are among the worst-hit with the heat wave compounding the misery unleashed by a severe drought on account of the failure of pre-monsoon showers.

Acute drinking water scarcity and shortage of fodder has made people’s lives miserable. The authorities have been supplying drinking water through tankers in the affected areas. The shortage of power in the State has added to the woes of the people, who are sufferring from unscheduled power cuts, especially in rural areas.

In many parts of north Karnataka, the authorities have changed the timings of office hours for the benefit of employees. Most Government offices now function from 8.30 am to 1.30 pm.
The blistering sun has forced many people to remain indoors and most streets wear a deserted look during daytime. Meteorological department officials said the present situation may continue for a few more days