Heatwave Strains Gautam Buddh Nagar Health Department with Surging Autopsies

The Gautam Buddh Nagar health department received 18 more bodies for postmortem amid severe heatwave conditions, bringing the total to 93 autopsies in four days. DNA sampling of unidentified bodies has started to expedite disposal. Unusually high temperatures and humidity have been linked to increased mortality rates.

Amid severe heatwave conditions, the Gautam Buddh Nagar health department has registered a surge in autopsies, receiving 18 more bodies for postmortem on June 21. This brings the total to 93 autopsies in just four days, officials reported on Saturday.

The department has initiated DNA sampling of unidentified bodies to facilitate timely disposal and reduce the growing pile at the mortuary, said Chief Medical Officer Dr. Suneel Kumar Sharma. Out of the recent 18 bodies, six remain unidentified.

Highlighting the extraordinary nature of the current heatwave, Dr. Sharma noted the extreme weather conditions and increased humidity are not typical, leading to higher mortality rates. The heat's impact varies, with healthy individuals less affected, while vulnerable groups like construction workers and security personnel are at higher risk. Private hospitals have extended support by providing additional mortuary freezer space to cope with the surge.

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