Minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy Calls For Heatwave Precautions Till June 15

In view of the rising temperatures and intensifying heatwave conditions in the state, Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy has directed officials to take coordinated and comprehensive measures to safeguard the public. Citing warnings from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) that heatwaves are likely to be severe in 2026 and high temperatures may persist until June 15 , the Minister held a review meeting with officials from over 20 departments at his Secretariat office.

On this occasion, the Minister released the Comprehensive Telangana State Heatwave Action Plan–2026 , jointly prepared by the Telangana State Disaster Management Department and the IMD. He stated that the plan aims to minimise the impact of heatwaves through advance precautions and coordinated action. Officials were instructed to ensure that no shortage of drinking water occurs in rural and urban areas over the next 45 days . In case of motor failures, repairs must be completed within 24 hours to avoid disruption in water supply.

The Minister noted that in Hyderabad , water supply is being maintained through tankers, with filling operations conducted for about 14 hours daily , and nearly 15,000 tankers deployed for distribution. Departments including Panchayat Raj, Municipal Administration, Fire Services, and Health were asked to work in close coordination. Officials were also directed to submit reports within 15 days on assistance provided to victims affected by natural disasters.

He emphasised that all precautions must be taken to prevent hardship to the public due to heatwaves. However, in the event of unforeseen deaths , authorities should adopt a humane approach and ensure immediate ex gratia relief to the affected families. In rural areas, where children are at risk near water bodies such as ponds and tanks, the NDRF, SDRF, Police, and Revenue Departments have been instructed to undertake special monitoring measures .

Additionally, the Minister called for public awareness campaigns on heatwave safety, promotion of precautionary measures during peak temperatures, establishment of cool wards , and conduct of fire safety audits in hospitals . He also directed that ORS packets be made available at Primary Health Centres and hospitals , and industries be advised to provide rotational rest for workers operating in high-temperature environments.