The Delhi government has conducted a scientific heat assessment of the city using satellite data to identify high-risk thermal hotspots, as maximum temperatures have exceeded 40 degrees Celsius for nearly 40 consecutive days in the past two to three years.
High-Risk Areas Identified
The assessment found that among the most sensitive areas is Ayanagar in south Delhi, where temperatures often exceed 45 degrees Celsius in summer. Najafgarh recorded 43.7 degrees Celsius in 2025, and Safdarjung hit 46.8 degrees Celsius in 2023. Emerging thermal hotspots include Wazirpur, Jahangirpuri, Khayala, Shastri Park, Vishwas Nagar, Harkesh Nagar, Hari Nagar, and Delhi Gate. Densely populated fringe areas such as Sawda, Mubarakpur Dabas, Bhalswa, Nand Nagri, Gokulpuri, and Bakkarwala are experiencing a pronounced heat island effect.
Protection Measures
Based on the findings, protection measures have been designed for these zones, including increased ORS stock at health centers, deployment of quick response teams, and additional water tankers. With heatwave conditions intensifying, the Delhi government, under its Heat Wave Action Plan 2026, has asked departments to step up on-ground implementation with a sharper, science-backed approach.
Chief Minister's Review
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, after reviewing preparedness, said the strategy this year focuses on targeted interventions in thermal hotspots and among vulnerable populations. Officials said teams are being deployed, while departments have been instructed to ensure coordination at multiple levels. The plan prioritizes children, outdoor workers, and animals.
Measures for Animals and Birds
Authorities have expanded measures beyond human safety to include animals and birds. The Chief Minister's Office stated that departments have been asked to install water containers in public spaces such as parks, bus depots, and school premises. Water points are being created for stray animals.
Schoolchildren and Outdoor Workers
For schoolchildren, contingency steps include administering ORS before dispersal if conditions worsen. Construction workers and other outdoor laborers are set to receive protective gear such as caps and gamchas, along with access to drinking water. Work at construction sites may be halted between noon and 3 pm on peak heatwave days. First-aid kits and ice packs will also be available.
Infrastructure Interventions
Infrastructure-level interventions are also underway. The government is pushing forward a cool roof policy, with reflective coatings already applied at select locations to lower indoor temperatures. High-pressure misting systems are planned at bus stops, while anti-smog guns will be deployed in densely built areas to bring down ambient temperatures.
Power Demand
Power demand is expected to surge sharply, with projections indicating it could cross 9,000 MW this summer. The government has directed distribution companies to ensure uninterrupted supply, especially to critical facilities such as hospitals and water treatment plants.
