Centre to start special heatwave units in government hospitals

Amid scorching temperatures across large parts of the country, Union Health Minister JP Nadda reviewed the heatwave situation, prevalent across vast swathes of the Indian subcontinent, and the preparedness of central government hospitals on Wednesday. Nadda directed officials to ensure all hospitals are ready to provide optimal care to those affected and ordered the establishment of special heatwave units in central government hospitals.

Earlier this month, the Union Health Ministry urged states and Union Territories to conduct follow-up reviews to ensure dedicated heatstroke rooms, ORS (oral rehydration solution) corners, and enhanced surveillance, in addition to implementing essential fire and electrical safety measures at all healthcare facilities.

They were asked to assess the preparedness for heatwave conditions and the fire and electrical safety measures adopted by the healthcare facilities.

“According to IMD data, North Indian cities like Delhi have been experiencing heatwave conditions for over a month, with temperatures consistently exceeding 40°C. This is now the longest heatwave in Indian history,” said Dr Vishwas Chitale, Senior Programme Lead, Council on Energy, Environment and Water.

“This year has also seen record-breaking warm nights, with Alwar recording a minimum temperature of 37°C and Delhi nearly 35°C, which is nearly 5°C more than normal,” Chitale said. “These high nighttime temperatures pose serious health concerns, as they prevent cooling down from the daytime heat.”

“Although the southwest monsoon made a timely onset over South India, it remains delayed in the North, which means there is no immediate relief from the heatwaves,” he said. “Northeastern states are grappling with flooding.” NDTV Profit