India Prepares for Extreme Heat Wave During Summer Months
Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting on Thursday to review India's preparedness for the upcoming summer months, which are expected to bring extreme heat wave conditions. The meeting focused on ensuring synergy between central, state, and district levels of government to effectively manage the situation.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted above-normal maximum temperatures over most parts of the country during April-June, with a high probability of such conditions in central western peninsular India. This coincides with the upcoming General Elections, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
The meeting reviewed the preparedness of the health sector, including the availability of essential medicines, intravenous fluids, ice packs, ORS, and drinking water. The importance of timely dissemination of information, education, and communication (IEC) awareness material in regional languages was also stressed.
Modi emphasized the need for a whole-of-government approach, urging all arms of the government at various levels to work together. He also highlighted the importance of awareness creation and adequate preparation in hospitals, along with the need for quick detection and suppression of forest fires.
The meeting was attended by the principal secretary to the prime minister, home secretary, officials from the IMD, and the National Disaster Management Authority. India is bracing itself for a challenging summer with extreme heat, and the government is taking steps to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.