A young woman shields herself from the oppressive heat in Hyderabad with her face covered in a dupatta and an umbrella in her hand. | Photo credit: SIDDHANT THAKUR
As Telangana goes through another intense summer, the state’s Heat Wave Action Plan 2026 highlights not only the problem of rising temperatures but also concerns over whether the healthcare system can respond quickly enough during large-scale emergencies.
The plan warns that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and other medical emergencies, in addition to worsening existing cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. It also warns that hospitals and emergency services are likely to face further pressure during periods of intense heat due to an increase in heat-related cases.
How is Telangana preparing its health system for the ongoing summer?
The government’s immediate focus is on frontline health workers. Under the action plan, health workers, Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Anganwadi workers have been oriented at the local level to identify and respond to heat-related diseases.
Medical, non-medical staff and community health workers also received training to improve the prevention and management of heat-related health conditions. “The goal is to reduce both mortality and morbidity associated with heat waves,” the plan states.
What diseases is the system preparing for?
Exposure to high temperatures can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, heatstroke and even loss of consciousness. The action plan states that heat waves can worsen pre-existing conditions such as heart disease and respiratory disease, especially among vulnerable populations. The elderly, children, pregnant women and people with existing health problems have been identified as the most vulnerable groups during heat waves.
How will hospitals and departments coordinate during emergencies?
Departments such as health and water supply are expected to operate control rooms to ensure communication systems remain operational during periods of extreme heat. The government has also directed ministries and district administrations to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of officials involved in responding to heat waves.
How will people be informed about health risks?
The action plan proposes dissemination of informational messages through print, electronic and social media platforms along with the preparation of informational, educational and communication materials such as brochures, posters and advertisements. The government also plans to produce TV commercials focusing on the dos and don’ts of heat waves and basic treatment measures for heat-related illnesses.
What role does early warning play in healthcare preparedness?
Telangana’s network of 1,091 automatic weather stations is expected to support real-time monitoring and forecasting of temperature conditions, enabling authorities to issue warnings and alerts before temperatures reach dangerous levels. These warnings are to be disseminated through the TS-Weather mobile application, SMS alerts, WhatsApp messages, social media and LED displays.
Published – 12 May 2026 21:09 IST
