Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has instructed various state departments to take coordinated action in preparation for a potential heat wave. This move comes as temperatures in the state continue to rise daily.
Pinarayi Vijayan addressed a meeting focused on tackling the ongoing heat wave, pre-monsoon cleaning, and enhancing health alertness and epidemic prevention measures, according to an official release issued here on Saturday.
He said there should not be a lack of vigilance on the part of departments, though temperatures come down in the evenings with frequent summer rains.
To combat the impending heat wave, Kerala's CM has instructed local self-governments to disseminate instructions and warning messages as a precautionary measure. Additionally, local authorities must ensure the availability of clean drinking water in public areas, achieved through collaboration with various organisations and institutions.
The Chief Minister has directed that rest areas and clean drinking water be provided to auto and taxi drivers, online food delivery workers, and security staff in front of hotels and restaurants. Employers have also been advised to revise work schedules for workers exposed to the sun, ensuring they receive necessary rest and hydration. Furthermore, steps will be taken to convey heatwave warnings to tourists, promoting awareness and safety.
Treatment facilities have already been set up at taluk-level hospitals for addressing health problems caused by the heat wave. Areas prone to fire should be identified in advance and necessary steps taken as a precautionary measure.
The Chief Minister also instructed the departments to clean water reservoirs in order to store water from the summer rains as much as possible.
He outlined measures to protect vulnerable groups from the heat wave. Wandering animals will be provided with clean water to ensure their safety. To minimise human-wildlife conflict, the government will ensure the availability of water within forests and protect water reservoirs. Street vendors and traders will be alerted about the heat wave and directed to nearby hotels, where they can access drinking water. Additionally, a surveillance team of ASHA workers will be formed to provide special attention to elderly people and bedridden patients inside their homes, ensuring their safety and well-being during this period.
The meeting was attended by ministers K Rajan, K N Balagopal, V Sivankutty, Veena George, A K Saseendran, J Chinjurani and R Bindu, chief secretary Saradha Muraleedharan, and heads of various departments.
(inputs from PTI)