PM reviews preparedness for heat wave related situation

PM stressed upon whole of Government approach; also highlighted importance of awareness creation along with adequate preparation in hospitals

PM briefed about forecasts for upcoming hot weather season and likelihood of above normal maximum temperatures

PM also reviewed preparedness of Health sector

Timely dissemination of essential IEC / awareness material - esp in regional languages, through all platforms - stressed

Advisories issued by Health Ministry and NDMA to be translated into regional languages and disseminated widely

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi chaired a meeting to review preparedness for the ensuing heat wave season.

Prime Minister was briefed about the temperature outlook for the period from April to June, 2024 including the forecasts for the upcoming hot weather season (April to June), the likelihood of above normal maximum temperatures over most parts of the country, especially with high probability over Central India and western peninsular India.

Preparedness in the health sector was reviewed in terms of essential medicines, intravenous fluids, ice packs, ORS and drinking water.

The timely dissemination of essential IEC / awareness material especially in regional languages through all platforms such as television, radio and social media was stressed upon. Since a hotter than normal summer is expected in 2024, which coincides with the General Elections, it was felt that the Advisories issued by MoHFW and NDMA be translated into regional languages and disseminated widely.

Prime Minister stressed upon the whole of Government approach. He said that all arms of the government at Central, State and District levels and various Ministries need to work on this in synergy. Prime Minister also stressed upon awareness creation along with adequate preparation in hospitals. He also highlighted the need for quick detection and putting out forest fires.

The Principal Secretary to PM, Home Secretary, officials from Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), and the National Disaster Management Authority participated in the meeting.