Delhi has endured temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius for nearly 40 consecutive days in recent summers, a trend expected to continue. In response, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday reviewed and mandated the strict implementation of the 'Heat Wave Action Plan 2026,' describing it as a more scientific and robust approach than previous years.
Protecting Vulnerable Populations
The plan prioritizes the safety of schoolchildren and construction workers, two groups highly exposed to extreme heat. Schoolchildren may receive Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) before their commute home during severe heatwave conditions to prevent dehydration. For construction workers, outdoor activity could be halted between 12 noon and 3 pm, the most dangerous period of the day. Additionally, worksites will provide drinking water, sun protection (caps, gamchas), and readily available first-aid kits with ice packs.
Infrastructure for Cooling and Mitigation
On the infrastructure front, the Delhi government is advancing a formal 'Cool Roof Policy 2026.' Already, a reflective coating has been applied across approximately 28,674 square feet at the Kashmere Gate ISBT, demonstrating its effectiveness in reducing indoor temperatures. High-pressure misting systems are being installed at bus stops, and anti-smog guns will be deployed to cool densely built-up urban areas. The Delhi Development Authority, Education Department, and Delhi Jal Board have been directed to ensure water containers for birds and dedicated water points for stray animals in parks, bus depots, and school campuses.
Targeting High-Risk Zones and Health Response
Utilizing satellite data, the government has identified Delhi's most heat-vulnerable zones. Ayanagar, Najafgarh, and Safdarjung, which have previously recorded extreme temperatures, are among the sensitive areas. Specific thermal hotspots include Wazirpur, Jahangirpuri, Khayala, Shastri Park, Vishwas Nagar, Harkesh Nagar, Hari Nagar, and Delhi Gate. Densely populated fringe areas like Sawda, Mubarakpur Dabas, Bhalswa, Nand Nagri, Gokulpuri, and Bakkarwala are also experiencing significant heat-island effects.
To support these localities, additional ORS stock, Quick Response Teams, and water tankers have been positioned. The Health Department has placed over 339 health centres across 13 districts on high alert, and more than 30 hospitals have established dedicated five-bed cool rooms for heatwave patients. Approximately 39 Quick Response Teams and trained ASHA workers are on standby. Residents can access emergency services 24/7 via helplines 1077, 1070, and 112.
Addressing Power Grid Demands
Chief Minister Gupta also highlighted the anticipated strain on Delhi's power infrastructure. Peak electricity demand this summer is projected to exceed 9,000 MW, a significant increase from last year's maximum of 8,442 MW. The chief minister issued a stern warning to power distribution companies, emphasizing that outages during peak summer, particularly affecting critical facilities like hospitals, water treatment plants, and mobile towers, will not be tolerated.