LIFE DISRUPTS DUE TO EXCESSIVE SUN HEAT IN TALCHER
Dhiramohan Ray,Odishabarta
Talcher,(27/4/26):Talcher is imprecisely described as a “boiling cauldron” due to severe environmental degradation, reduced forest cover, and intense coal mining activities.
The industrial town frequently experiences extreme heat, creating unlivable, “frying pan” condition. Massive mining operations and industrialization in the region have destroyed natural, green cover, making it a “blazing pot”.
The area suffers from extreme heat, particularly during summer months due to these accelerated environmental changes. Heat wave has thrown normal life out of gear in Talcher and several areas is found sizzling at 44 degree Celsius.
In Talcher, though the temperature remained below 42 degrees till April 11, it shot after April 15, while other areas recorded around 42-45 degrees, temperature in coal mine areas remained three to four degrees higher. Meanwhile streets wore a deserted look during the peak hours from 12.00 AM to 3. 00 PM. Massive industrialisation, rampant deforestation and burning of coal in power plant boilers and in coal mines have contributed to the upsurge of heat wave conditions in Talcher.
Besides, another reason for the rise in temperature is the burning of coal in NTPC, Kaniha, and Nalco power plants which reportedly consume around 1.5 lakh tonnes of coal per day. Also, deforestation in Talcher coal belt and emission from trucks carrying coal to other parts of the state, add to the woes. The local administration asked coal mining authorities and other industrial units not to allow anyone to work beyond 11. 00 AM. Also, health care professionals are alerted to treat sun stroke patients at nearby hospitals.
Though no heat-related health issues have been reported as yet, the administration has geared up for possible emergencies. As per the direction of local administration, monitoring of public health conditions of various village points are very much carefully watched and further course of action will be taken accordingly. Locals are being instructed to protect themselves from the excessive sun heat by following the government’s rules, sources said.
