UCA News
Contribute

Cold weather kills dozens in north India

Most victims are homeless, children and the elderly
Cold weather kills dozens in north India
Published: December 21, 2011 08:41 AM GMT
Updated: December 21, 2011 09:31 AM GMT

A cold wave sweeping across northern India has claimed 75 lives in the past three days, mostly among homeless populations. BP Yadav, director of the New Delhi-based India Meteorological Department, told ucanews.com today that the cold wave would remain until Christmas day. “You know why people die of cold. I don’t have to explain it,” Yadav said. He added that northwesterly winds from the Himalayan region in recent days have driven regional temperatures down to unseasonable levels. Local media reports indicated that the victims were mostly homeless who slept in open spaces. Children and elderly were among the worst affected, the reports said. The largest number of casualties was reported from Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state. Deaths were also reported in Bihar, Haryana and Punjab states. Hospitals in the region have reported a growing number of cases of influenza and respiratory ailments. The region is also experiencing severe fog that has disrupted air, rail and road traffic.

Help UCA News to be independent
Dear reader,
Lent is the season during which catechumens make their final preparations to be welcomed into the Church.
Each year during Lent, UCA News presents the stories of people who will join the Church in proclaiming that Jesus Christ is their Lord. The stories of how women and men who will be baptized came to believe in Christ are inspirations for all of us as we prepare to celebrate the Church's chief feast.
Help us with your donations to bring such stories of faith that make a difference in the Church and society.
A small contribution of US$5 will support us continue our mission…
William J. Grimm
Publisher
UCA News
Asian Bishops
Latest News
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia