Traffic constables say that in recent months, there have been four to five people fainting or experiencing severe dehydration in almost all junctions due to intense heat.
As temperatures soar, police officers find themselves challenged not only by the chaos of vehicles but also by the relentless heat. Wearing their crisp uniforms, they stand at busy intersections; their dedication to duty tested by the extreme heat conditions.
Constable Rajesh, stationed at Bomanahalli junction, said, “The heat is unbearable, and I do not have a cabin to be in. Every moment feels scary under the blazing sun and we feel weak without proper breaks in between.”
Constable Deva. S at Hongsandra junction spoke of the exhaustion felt by his fellow officers. “We do our best to maintain order, but the heat makes it incredibly challenging,” he said. He said that in these few months, he heard of at least three people fainting at this junction due to heat.
He said that despite their efforts, fatigue and dehydration sets in as the day progresses. Some officers seek safety under the shade, while others use makeshift umbrellas made with newspapers or their caps. He mentioned that there is only a small hanging fan in the cabin which is no match to the heat.
Sri Gowri, the North Zone Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), said, “We have no choice, do we?” She added that traffic police officers ought to prioritize their work and worry about anything else later. “It is a problem because mini fans are placed in cabins , which offer no relief,” she said She went on to discuss how the traffic department’s circumstances have gotten worse due to the ongoing election work.
Meena, a traffic police officer who was recently assigned duty at Jakkasandra check post stated that providing them with buttermilk or water bottles will make the situation easier to handle. The extreme heat has made it difficult for her to even stand at the crossroads or post during the afternoon, she said. She added that she felt dizzy and has fallen ill continuously and cannot get a day off since the elections are nearing.
Dr. Faizan Khalid, a general physician said, “Heat strokes are on the rise and it is unfathomable to understand the kind of exposure to heat that traffic cops face.” He also said that there could be chances of suffering from severe dehydration, rashes, sunburns, migraine, and heat strokes. “It is advisable to always wear sunscreen or any kind of skin protection lotions and consume plenty of water in order to lessen the effects of heat exposure,” he said.
