Patna, May 21 (IANS) Bihar continues to reel under an intense heatwave, with scorching temperatures and hot winds severely affecting normal life across the state. The India Meteorological Department has issued a ‘Red Alert’ for heatwave conditions in five districts of southwestern Bihar—Bhojpur, Buxar, Kaimur, Rohtas, and Aurangabad—warning that the situation could become extremely dangerous and life-threatening.

According to meteorologists, temperatures in several districts may touch or exceed 43 degrees Celsius.

Blistering westerly winds and extreme daytime heat have forced people indoors, while roads and marketplaces remain largely deserted during afternoon hours.

Health experts have urged residents to avoid stepping out between 12 P.M. and 4 P.M., when the risk of heatstroke and dehydration is highest.

Doctors have advised people to stay hydrated by consuming water, lemon water, ORS, and other fluids.

The weather department has predicted slight relief for Patna, with the possibility of partial cloud cover and light drizzle in some areas.

However, humid conditions caused by easterly winds are expected to continue, keeping discomfort levels high.

The maximum temperature in the capital is likely to remain around 38 degrees Celsius.

The severe weather conditions are also impacting railway operations across Bihar, leading to major delays in train services.

Several prominent trains, including Magadh Express, Garib Rath Express, Patliputra Express, Vikramshila Express, Brahmaputra Mail, and Poorva Express, have reportedly been running behind schedule by one to three hours.

The worst affected was the Shramjeevi Express, which reached Patna Junction nearly three hours late on Wednesday.

Passengers have been forced to wait for extended periods at railway stations, causing particular hardship to elderly travellers, women, and children.

Delays have also disrupted connecting journeys and onward travel plans.

Railway officials attributed the delays to rising temperatures, operational pressure, and heat-related effects on railway tracks.

However, passengers complained that such disruptions recur every summer without any long-term corrective measures.

The extreme weather is now affecting not only public health and road transport but also the railway network, adding to the difficulties faced by people across Bihar.

–IANS

ajk/rad