The death toll in the unprecedented heat wave has reached an all-time high of 1,139 in Andhra Pradesh, causing panic among the people of the state. The coastal and Telangana regions in particular are reeling under the impact of the soaring mercury. Temperatures in these areas are hovering between 45 and 49C -- about 10 degrees above normal.
The Andhra Pradesh government claims to be taking all possible measures to face the current situation. "We have directed the district collectors of all the affected regions to distribute packets of salt solutions. Our officials have also asked people to cover their heads before venturing out," says relief commissioner D C Rosaiah.