The Haryana Chief Secretary Sh. TVSN Prasad today said that the state government has implemented a series of comprehensive and proactive measures to mitigate the impact of the heat wave and safeguard public health.
The Department of Revenue and Disaster Management has issued detailed instructions to all Deputy Commissioners and Administrative Secretaries of stakeholder departments, emphasizing the need for effective mitigation strategies and designating nodal officers to oversee actions.
Additionally, the State Government has also prepared a draft action plan on climate change, which will soon be sent to the central government. Moreover, a work plan for desilting reservoirs will be implemented shortly.
After attending the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) meeting, which was chaired by the Union Cabinet Secretary through video conferencing, here today to review the preparedness and response measures for addressing the ongoing heat wave conditions affecting several parts of the country, the Chief Secretary said, "Since mid-May, Haryana has been grappling with relentless heat wave to severe heat wave conditions, with some regions experiencing prolonged periods of extreme heat and Sirsa recording a staggering 50.3°C on May 28.
While some respite is expected due to thunderstorms in the coming days, temperatures are projected to rise again soon." He said that call centers have been established at the district level by the Public Health Department. Water tankers are dispatched immediately upon receiving calls from the public.
He added that the scorching heat wave gripping Haryana has prompted the Health and Family Welfare Department to take decisive action. Their focus is two-fold: ensuring swift medical response and empowering the public to stay safe.
Financial Backing and Medical Infrastructure
The department has allocated a substantial Rs 26.75 crore specifically for heat illness treatment supplies. This ensures each district has the necessary resources to combat heatstroke and related issues. Additionally, Oral Rehydration Corners have been set up in health facilities and key locations to provide immediate relief to those suffering from heat exhaustion or dehydration.
Strengthening Medical Response
Recognizing the potential for emergencies, ambulances are on high alert and closely coordinated with the 112 emergency helpline. This ensures rapid response times in case of heatstroke incidents. Furthermore, medical officers and paramedics across all districts are undergoing rigorous training on handling Heat Related Illnesses (HRI) as per Ministry of Health and Family Welfare guidelines. This training equips healthcare professionals with the expertise to effectively diagnose and treat heatstroke cases.
Departmental Actions
Each department has taken specific actions to address the heat wave. The School Education Department adjusted school timings and declared summer vacations until June 30, 2024, to protect students from peak heat hours.
The Development and Panchayats Department adjusted working hours for MGNREGA workers to avoid peak heat periods and ensured provisions for drinking water, shade, and first aid at work sites. Awareness campaigns have been launched to inform workers about the impacts of heat waves.
The Animal Husbandry and Dairying Department issued advisories to protect livestock, while the Fire and Emergency Services ensured all fire vehicles and equipment are operational and ready for emergencies. The Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department developed a contingency crop plan for Kharif 2024 and issued irrigation advisories to support farmers.
The Power Department formed a Monitoring and Coordination Committee to manage power supply demands and ensure consistent power for water supply schemes..
Labour Department Initiatives
The Labour Department has taken significant steps to protect workers from the heat wave. The Labour Commissioner has reviewed the situation with all field officers and issued advisories to adjust work timings to avoid peak heat hours, particularly in industries, construction sites, and brick kilns.
Rest periods during peak heat hours have been increased, and the nearest hospital or clinic phone numbers are displayed prominently. The department has mandated the provision of air conditioning or coolers for workers in emergencies such as heat strokes.
Drinking water facilities must be available at all work premises, and health camps are being organized in collaboration with the Health Department at labour chowks and brick kilns. Employers are advised to keep ice packs and ORS packets readily available in sufficient quantities.
Women and Child Development Department Initiatives
The Women and Child Development Department has issued directives to all District Programme Officers to conduct door-to-door awareness campaigns. These campaigns aim to educate young girls and mothers about the dangers of heat waves, related health impacts, and precautionary measures, in coordination with the Health Department.
IEC materials are displayed at Anganwadis, and Integrated Child Development Scheme workers are encouraged to disseminate heat wave-related information, especially focusing on infants, children below five years, pregnant and lactating mothers, and the elderly.
The department ensures that Anganwadi Centers are equipped with drinking water and first aid supplies. Adequate ORS and zinc solutions are made available at these centers in coordination with the Health Department, Haryana.
Besides, local-level initiatives have been actively implemented by Deputy Commissioners across the state to mitigate the heat wave's impact, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents.