The death toll in the heatwave sweeping India has passed 1000, with temperatures nearing 50°C in some areas.
A taxi driver rests in his parked car in Kolkata on Monday. Photo: AFP
Most deaths have taken place in the southern states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, where at least 1118 people have died since last week.
Reports said at least 24 people have died from the heat in West Bengal and Orissa.
Temperatures are likely to drop in some parts over the coming days.
Hospitals are on alert to treat heatstroke patients and authorities have advised people to stay indoors.
A policeman stands in the shade at the Indian Defence Ministry in New Delhi. Photo: AFP
Two women and a child shelter under an umbrella in Hyderabad on Monday. Photo: AFP
Heatwave conditions have been prevailing in the two worst-affected southern Indian states since mid-April, but most of the deaths have happened in the past week.
In the worst-hit state of Andhra Pradesh, where temperatures have climbed to 47°C, 852 people have died.
In neighbouring Telangana, 266 people have died in the last week as temperatures hit 48°C over the weekend.
Alfred Innes, who lives in Telangana's capital Hyderabad, said members of the public have received little help so far.
"I have personally witnessed the death of a three-year-old very close to where I stay and that was because of severe heat. It's very sad.
"The government isn't doing much, but as individuals we are trying our best," he added.
The country's meteorological department has issued a warning for Orissa, Jharkhand and Andhra Pradesh, saying maximum temperatures would remain above 45°C.
Temperatures fell slightly in Telangana on Tuesday and are expected to start dropping in Andhra Pradesh by the end of the week.
The weather is likely to cool further when the summer monsoon begins at the end of the month.
- BBC
