Statewide Alert Over Heatwave – Minister Ponguleti

Amid rising temperatures across the state, Minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy has directed officials to remain on high alert and take immediate measures to ensure public safety. In view of the IMD warning that heatwave conditions will intensify over the next three days, district collectors have been instructed to stay vigilant. During an emergency review meeting held at the Secretariat on Saturday, the minister assessed district-wise reports and emphasized that protecting public lives must be the top priority for the administration.

According to official reports, 16 people have died due to heatstroke across seven districts, including four in Jayashankar Bhupalpally, three each in Warangal Urban, Karimnagar, and Nizamabad, and one each in Jogulamba Gadwal, Rangareddy, and Suryapet. Responding to these incidents, the minister announced that ex gratia of Rs 4 lakh will be provided to the families of the deceased, as per the directions of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, and instructed officials to expedite the process. He also warned that temperatures are reaching extreme levels due to the El Niño effect and stressed that there should be no negligence in safeguarding public lives.