Extreme heat condition shrinks daily turnover for retail businesses in Tiruppur
The decline in the number of roadside vendors in Tiruppur city has become noticeable due to the extreme heat conditions.
According to a trader in plastic wares along Palladam Road, it is better to close down shop than continuing with sparse transactions in the peak of heat conditions from 11 a.m. to even beyond 5 p.m.
The peak summer has impacted the transactions in the retail showrooms as well.
“Spending more on overheads such as air-conditioning and lighting on the one hand, notwithstanding the decline in daily turnover is not unusual during summer. But, this time around, the conditions appear to be extreme,” said Raghunathan, manager of a textile showroom on Avinashi Road.
In view of the extremity of summer, the district administration has come out with dos and don’ts for residents to safeguard themselves from the heat wave conditions.
Residents have been advised to keep their body hydrated by drinking adequate water, lemon and other fruit juices, and to wear light-coloured and airy clothes.
Advocating consumption of seasonal fruits, vegetables and home-cooked food, Collector T. Christuraj advised people to remain indoors as much as possible, and carry an umbrella when they go out. The Disaster Management division of the district administration advised parents not to leave their children in parked vehicles.
As for the elderly people living alone, their physical condition must be checked twice a day, and the availability of a telephone at the home must be ascertained. Those found aected with heat stress must be treated with moist towels wrapped around their necks and arms, and given a bath in cold water.
Farmers tending to livestock must ensure that the cattle are tied under shady canopy, and are provided with adequate water. Likewise, birds must be provided with enough water.
Residents need to be wary of electrical wires in terraced and roofed houses getting melted and catching re. Expensive gadgets and important documents must be safeguarded to rule out damage due to accidental re triggered by the summer heat, the advisory states.