Senior BJP leader and Leader of Opposition in Karnataka Assembly R. Ashoka criticized the Congress government in Karnataka for allegedly neglecting farmers during severe heatwave conditions and water scarcity. Ashoka highlighted that intense summer heat has damaged nearly 20% of sugarcane crops in some areas and caused a drinking water crisis in over 76 villages. He accused the government of prioritizing internal political disputes over addressing farmers’ needs.
Ashoka pointed out that despite water availability in reservoirs like Kabini, Krishna, and Malaprabha, farmers are facing power shortages, affecting their ability to operate pump sets. He described the situation as paradoxical, with water but no electricity and vice versa, attributing it to administrative failures. The leader also raised concerns about sugarcane crops wilting due to heat stress and power cuts, questioning the government’s response to farmers’ distress.
The BJP leader emphasized the urgent need for the government to address the drinking water crisis in districts like Gadag and provide adequate support to affected villages. He called on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to prioritize farmers’ welfare over political concerns in North Karnataka, demanding swift action, including crop loss compensation and improved water supply arrangements. Ashoka warned that failure to act promptly could lead to public outrage against the administration.
The Karnataka health department has instructed district and taluk hospitals to establish heatstroke management rooms with dedicated beds to treat patients with Heat Related Illness (HRI). The circular mandates Community Health Centres to allocate two beds, Taluk hospitals at least five beds, and district hospitals a minimum of ten beds for HRI patients. These facilities are required to be operational until July 31, equipped with essential resources like thermometers, fans, and ice cubes, with medical staff trained to manage HRI cases effectively.
