Intense heat wave cripples normal life in Patna

Patna, May 17 (ANI): People in Patna continue reel under the intense heat wave as the mercury continues to shoot up beyond normal levels.

With the mercury hovering above 45-degrees Celsius, roadside vendors of fruits and juices are all smiles as they are doing brisk business., while people take shelter from the scorching heat.

"I can't explain how hot the weather is. I take fresh lime water to protect from scorching heat," said Smriti Pathak, a resident.

Zoo authorities have also undertaken a number of steps for the animals under their care to help them beat the heat. Special enclosures with thatched roofs have been erected at various areas and are periodically kept cool by spraying water.

"The important factor is of water. Till now we are not facing any water problem. Proper sprinkling of water is being done in enclosures. Proper shading arrangement is also done for the animals so that they can take rest in shade," said Abhay Kumar, director, Patna zoo.

Usually, till the onset of the monsoon, the months of May-June are the hottest in the country with the temperatures hovering in the range of 40 to 45 degrees Celsius in several regions.

However, this year, the people were startled at the mercury shooting beyond the 40 degrees mark in the month of April itself. (ANI)