Heatwave conditions in Telangana have led to the loss of 16 lives, with temperatures soaring above 45 degrees Celsius in various parts of the state. The government has confirmed these deaths across seven districts and announced compensation of Rs 4 lakh for each affected family.
Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, after assessing the severe heatwave situation, has instructed officials to stay vigilant and promptly address any public inconveniences. With the India Meteorological Department predicting a worsening heatwave over the next three days, district collectors have been urged to exercise heightened caution.
In response to escalating temperatures and the ongoing heatwave crisis, the minister conducted an emergency meeting with senior officials to review district-wise reports and issue directives for prioritizing public safety. Reports from district collectors indicate fatalities in various districts, attributing the extreme heat to the severe El Niño effect.
To mitigate the impact of the heatwave, officials have been tasked with identifying areas with the highest temperatures and issuing timely warnings to residents. The minister emphasized the importance of raising awareness through various channels, including media, social platforms, and local announcements, to ensure that crucial information reaches the public promptly.
According to the Telangana Development Planning Society, 18 out of 33 districts recorded temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius, with Sirpur in Kumaram Bheem Asifabad district registering the highest temperature at 46.5 degrees Celsius. The IMD has issued alerts for several districts, warning of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds in isolated areas.
