Uttar Pradesh Takes Precautionary Measures Against Heatwave: Officials Emphasize Public Safety

Lucknow : With rising temperatures and the increasing risk of heatwaves, the Uttar Pradesh government has directed officials to ensure public awareness and implement safety measures. Revenue Principal Secretary P. Guru Prasad, during a video conference with all district magistrates at Lal Bahadur Shastri Bhavan (Annexe), stressed the need for immediate action to protect people from extreme heat conditions.

He instructed authorities to ensure an uninterrupted supply of electricity and water, stating that “unnecessary power cuts should be avoided.” Additionally, he emphasized the importance of medical preparedness, directing hospitals to maintain an adequate stock of medicines to treat heat-related illnesses.

Special Attention to Bundelkhand and Vindhya Regions

Given the vulnerability of Bundelkhand and Vindhya regions to extreme heat and water scarcity, special measures were announced. The Principal Secretary urged district authorities to remain alert to weather advisories and ensure smooth water supply through tankers, which will be monitored via GPS tracking. He also instructed authorities to create shaded areas in open parks and provide relief to daily wage workers by relaxing working hours between 12 PM and 3 PM.

To protect schoolchildren, it was decided that schools will operate in morning shifts, and all water sources and infrastructure will be maintained promptly. Additionally, the power supply schedule will be adjusted to accommodate peak heat hours.

Public Cooling Stations and Medical Readiness

Relief Commissioner Bhanu Chandra Goswami announced a campaign to set up water stations (pyaus) at public places to prevent heatstroke. He also directed the development of shaded shelters and instructed hospitals to maintain sufficient stocks of ORS packets at health centers and Anganwadi centers.

Hospitals were also directed to strengthen their fire safety protocols and maintain adequate electric backup systems to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services.

Fire Safety and Animal Welfare

With the risk of fires caused by short circuits and sparks increasing during extreme heat, the fire department has been put on high alert. Authorities have been asked to identify high-risk areas and ensure sufficient drinking water and other essential resources in those regions.

Additionally, the welfare of livestock was addressed, with orders to ensure proper water supply and shaded areas in cattle shelters.

The meeting, chaired by the Principal Secretary and Relief Commissioner, was attended by over 500 officials, including district magistrates, chief development officers, medical officers, and representatives from multiple departments.

These measures aim to mitigate the effects of heatwaves and safeguard both human and animal populations across the state.