Telangana has witnessed 16 deaths due to the ongoing heatwave, prompting the state government to announce an ex gratia of Rs 4 lakh for the families of each deceased. The announcement was made by the state's revenue department, which confirmed that the fatalities occurred across several districts over the past week.
Government Response
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed condolences and directed officials to ensure swift disbursal of compensation. The ex gratia amount is in line with the state's disaster relief norms. Additionally, the government has urged residents to take necessary precautions, including staying hydrated, avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours, and wearing light clothing.
Heatwave Impact
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for several parts of Telangana, with temperatures crossing 45 degrees Celsius in some areas. The heatwave conditions are expected to persist for the next few days. The state has also set up heatstroke treatment centers in public hospitals and deployed medical teams to rural areas.
Preventive Measures
Authorities have advised people to limit outdoor activities, especially between 12 PM and 4 PM. Schools in affected districts have been instructed to adjust timings or remain closed. The government is also distributing ORS packets and ensuring uninterrupted water supply in vulnerable regions.
This tragedy highlights the increasing frequency of extreme weather events linked to climate change. Telangana has experienced heatwaves in previous years, but the current spell has been particularly severe. Officials are monitoring the situation closely and have asked citizens to report any heat-related emergencies to the control room.
