The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English, 05-06-19

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From: The Hellenic Radio (ERA) <www.ert.gr/>

CONTENTS

[01] Official Death Toll Has Reached 125 Killer Heatwave in India

By Vivian Papastefanou

Sources: Reuters

At least 125 people have died of sunstroke and dehydration in India as high temperatures sweep many parts of the country. The eastern state of Orissa was worst affected with the local government confirming at least 75 deaths. Unofficial reports put the toll at more than 300. Temperatures soared above 50o C in the city Talcher, while the mercury hovered well above 40o C in most other areas. The adjoining state of Andhra Pradesh has also been affected by a heatwave. Officials said more than 50 people had died in the state, while unofficial estimates put the toll at above 200. Heat-related deaths have also been reported in the northern states of Bihar and Jharkhand, which, according to official sources, are experiencing the longest summer for the last 65 years.

[02] At an Inaccessible Area Fire on Samos Extinguished

By Vivian Papastefanou

Thousands of square metres of land were destroyed by fire, which broke out yesterday afternoon at the inaccessible area Tsourlei, between Leka and Karlsovasi, on the island of Samos. Twenty fire engines, more than 50 firefighters and volunteers, as well as two planes and two helicopters assisted in the fire-extinguishing operation. Despite their efforts, though, the fire managed to burnt down approximately 50,000 sq m of agricultural and forest land. The fire was started by a 36-year-old man who was trying to burn some dry weeds on his farm. The man was later arrested and charged with negligent arson.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[03] To Elect 28 MPs Elections in Northern Lebanon

By Vivian Papastefanou

The ballots opened at 7am in northern Lebanon for the fourth and final round of the parliamentary elections. Approximately 700,000 citizens registered to vote in 1,359 electoral offices in two regions are called upon to elect 13 Muslim and 15 Christian MPs, from a total of 128 seats in Parliament. These elections are expected to determine the character of the new Parliament, and mainly the proportion of power between the countrys two major political groups. The battle is between the coalition of elected Sunni MP Saad Hariri and the alliance of Christian MP Michel Aoun. The elections, which commenced four weeks ago, are the first that are taking place in the country, following the withdrawn of Syrian forces last April.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

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