Telangana (Rajeev Sharma): The Telangana government has announced financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh each for the families of 16 people who lost their lives due to severe heatwave conditions reported across seven districts of the state. The decision comes as temperatures continue to soar, with authorities intensifying emergency measures to prevent further casualties.
Revenue, Housing, Information and Public Relations Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy chaired a high-level review meeting at the state Secretariat on Saturday to assess the worsening heatwave situation and direct officials to strengthen relief efforts on the ground.
During the meeting, the minister instructed district administrations to remain on high alert and ensure immediate response mechanisms are in place. Special emphasis was laid on protecting vulnerable groups, including senior citizens, pregnant women, children and individuals suffering from existing health complications.
The government has advised residents to avoid venturing outdoors between 11 am and 4 pm unless absolutely unavoidable, as extreme daytime temperatures continue to pose serious health risks.
Apart from public safety measures, the minister also directed local bodies to arrange drinking water facilities for birds and animals in both urban and rural areas, citing the harsh weather’s impact on all living beings.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), severe heatwave conditions are expected to persist until May 26 in several districts, including Hyderabad, Rangareddy, Karimnagar, Khammam, Nalgonda, Suryapet, Mulugu and Mahabubnagar.
Officials have been asked to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply, activate medical emergency response teams and create public awareness about heatstroke symptoms and preventive precautions.
With the mercury showing no immediate signs of relief, authorities are urging people to remain indoors during peak hours, stay hydrated and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke appear.
