The disaster management authorities of Tripura have released a public advisory to address the challenges posed by the ongoing hot and humid weather, expected to persist for the coming days.
The general public has been advised to refrain from prolonged exposure to the intense sunlight, adjust their diet accordingly, and steer clear of alcoholic and carbonated drinks high in caffeine, which can lead to dehydration. Instead, it is suggested to consume homemade beverages like lassi, lemon water, and hydrating fruits during this period.
According to officials in the revenue department, the advisory is effective for the next seven days. If the situation persists beyond this period, a revised advisory will be issued accordingly.
“The state has been reeling from hot and humid weather conditions since last week. As per the IMD report, similar conditions may continue for more days. There are cautions from the medical fraternity asking people to avoid exposure to blazing sun and heat, which might even, in the worst case, result in sun strokes. Similarly, IMD is updating the weather reports and issuing daily bulletins with advisories for key stakeholders and the general public for handling hot and humid weather,” a press statement issued by the revenue department of Tripura stated.
As per a press statement, the Tripura government has officially categorized heat waves, sun strokes, and sunburns as state-specific disasters in Tripura. The statement also outlined a set of guidelines to be followed. It mentioned that for managing the upcoming hot and humid weather conditions, all district disaster management authorities have been instructed to conduct extensive awareness campaigns through various media platforms, keep the public updated on weather conditions, ensure access to safe drinking water and shaded areas at public and strategic locations, provide medical assistance, and make other essential arrangements for vulnerable communities within their districts.
District administrations have additionally been instructed to activate emergency operation centers, maintain alertness among quick response teams and resources, ensure uninterrupted power supply to all areas, and seek assistance from other key agencies as needed to safeguard the state’s citizens. Key recommendations for the general public include refraining from outdoor activities during peak sun hours, particularly between 1000 and 1500 IST, increasing water intake, and wearing lightweight, light-colored, breathable cotton clothing.
Additional recommendations include wearing protective goggles and using an umbrella or hat when outdoors in the sun, as well as abstaining from consuming alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated soft drinks, which can contribute to dehydration. “Avoid taking high-protein foods, and do not eat stale food. Use homemade drinks like lassi, lemon water, buttermilk, ORS, etc. which help rehydrate the body. Keep animals in shade and give them plenty of water to drink,” the advisory added.
Farmers are encouraged to maintain irrigation activities for summer maize, pulses, and other crops and vegetables. Additionally, they are advised to ensure proper shelter and ventilation for animals, particularly during the afternoon hours.