Palakkad sizzles as scorching summer shrinks reservoirs, triggers fish deaths in farms

Palakkad district is reeling under an intense heatwave, recording the highest temperatures in the State as daytime mercury levels soared past 40℃ on Tuesday. The situation was particularly severe around Malampuzha Dam, where temperatures on Tuesday touched 40.1℃. The relentless heat is not only disrupting daily life but has also led to a noticeable drop in tourist arrivals in the region.

The Meteorological department has issued a warning that temperatures are likely to rise further in the coming days. Amid the intense heat, reports of mass fish deaths have emerged from several parts of Palakkad. At Maruvakkad near Puthussery, fish farmer Sumati Muraleedharan reported heavy losses, with stocks meant for harvest in May dying prematurely.