New Delhi, April 26: Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced the implementation of the ‘Heat Wave Action Plan 2026’ in response to the alarming rise in temperatures and severe heat conditions in the capital. The plan aims to enhance the government’s strategy, making it more scientific and effective compared to previous years. Special attention will be given to school children and workers at construction sites, ensuring water availability for birds and animals as well. Special teams will be deployed to assist heat wave victims.
Gupta emphasized the sensitivity of Delhi’s thermal hotspots and heat island areas, noting a concerning trend of temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius for over 40 days in the past two to three years. This year, the government conducted a scientific analysis of every corner of Delhi, identifying areas where temperatures are reaching record levels based on satellite data. Ayanagar in South Delhi is particularly vulnerable, having previously recorded a temperature of 45.5 degrees Celsius. Other hotspots include Najafgarh in West Delhi, which reached 43.7 degrees Celsius in 2025, and Safdarjung, which recorded 46.8 degrees Celsius in 2023. Areas like Wazirpur, Jahangirpuri, Khayala, Shastri Park, Vishwas Nagar, Harkesh Nagar, Hari Nagar, and Delhi Gate have emerged as major thermal hotspots. The government has also noted the profound impact of heat islands in densely populated areas near the outskirts of Delhi, such as Savda, Mubarakpur Dabas, Bhalswa, Nand Nagri, Gokulpuri, and Bakkerwala. For these specific regions, a special safety protocol has been established, which includes increased supplies of ORS packets at health centers, deployment of Quick Response Teams (QRTs), and additional water tankers.
The Chief Minister directed all departments, especially the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), the Education Department, and the Delhi Water Board, to ensure proper arrangements for water and shade not only for humans but also for animals and birds. Water containers for birds and special water structures for stray animals are being set up in major parks, bus depots, and school campuses.
To protect school children from heat and dehydration, the government plans to provide ORS solutions before sending them home if necessary. During extreme heat waves, outdoor work for construction workers will be completely banned between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Workers will also be provided with caps and towels for sun protection, along with first aid kits and ice packs at their workplaces.
The Chief Minister announced that Delhi is moving towards the Cool Roof Policy 2026. Reflective coating work has been completed on approximately 28,674 square feet of roofs at the Kashmiri Gate interstate bus terminal, which will help reduce indoor temperatures. Additionally, high-pressure misting systems will be installed at bus stops, and anti-smog guns will be used to cool concrete areas.
According to the Chief Minister, the health department has kept over 339 health centers across all 13 districts on alert and prepared special 5-bed cool rooms in more than 30 hospitals. In case of emergencies, citizens can contact the Delhi government’s 24×7 helpline at 1077, 1070, or 112. Furthermore, 39 Quick Response Teams and trained ASHA workers are also on alert. Arrangements for cold drinking water and ORS solutions will be made at busy bus stops and terminals.
Gupta reiterated the government’s strong commitment to electricity supply, stating that this summer, the capital may see a new record in electricity demand. It is estimated that peak power demand in Delhi will exceed 9,000 megawatts, significantly higher than last year’s peak of 8,442 megawatts. In light of this heavy demand, strict instructions have been issued to power companies to avoid any supply cuts.
To ensure uninterrupted power supply at critical locations such as hospitals, water treatment plants (WTPs), and mobile towers, special priority protocols have been implemented. Power companies have also been directed to deploy additional quick response teams and mobile transformers to address transformer and technical failures promptly in case of emergencies.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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