NAWABSHAH, May 17: Dozens fell unconscious and a number of heatstroke cases were reported in various hospitals of the district as mercury crossed 49 degree Celsius mark on Saturday.

A number of sunstroke cases were reported in Nawabshah Medical College and other hospitals of the district as number of people fell unconscious due to immense heat.

The roads and markets wore a deserted look as the scorching heat did not allow people to come out of their houses and business activities remained suspended.

Many people, including children, turned to canals and waterways for swim to beat the heat.

Motorcyclists and patients admitted in various hospitals were the worst sufferers of the heat.

The price of ice was increased while the sale of soft drinks and juices was also increased due to heat intensity.

Ms Shamsuddin at local met office told Dawn that the maximum temperature recoded on Friday was 48 degree Celsius.

He said that the heat waves would continue to hit the district and it was expected that the temperature may cross 50 Celsius mark in a coupe of days.—Correspondent