NEW DELHI: “Stay hydrated; don’t ignore signs of heat exhaustion,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday urged citizens to take maximum precautions as the country is witnessing soaring temperatures. In a series of posts on X, Mr Modi said that children, the elderly and those working outdoors are especially vulnerable to extreme heat and must stay hydrated and should not ignore the warning signs of heat exhaustion, as it can quickly turn dangerous and may even lead to heatstroke.
The Prime Minister, while chairing the Union Cabinet meeting, also asked all ministers to ensure that their respective departments take necessary steps to mitigate the impact of the prevailing heatwave conditions across the country. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, however, criticised Mr Modi over his appeal, saying the public will endure the heat but common persons are sweating due to the fire of “BJP-sponsored inflation”.
Urging caution during harsh summer heat, Mr Modi said: “Different parts of India are witnessing soaring temperatures and the challenges that come with it. This heat is harsh on all of us and I urge you all to take as many precautions as possible. Please stay hydrated; keep water with you when stepping out. Offer a glass of water to others. In weather like this, such kindness goes a long way.”
The Prime Minister advised taking signs of heat exhaustion, like dizziness, nausea or extreme fatigue, seriously. “If someone around you feels unusually unwell or weak or develops a headache, it is best to help move them to a cool and shaded place immediately. Ensure they get water, ORS, etc. that helps them… In such weather, timely care and attention go a long way,” he said.
Mr Modi also urged the citizens to check on elderly parents, grandparents and loved ones whenever possible during the heatwave. “Remind them to stay hydrated, avoid stepping out in peak afternoon hours and take rest whenever possible,” he said.
Emphasising compassion during extreme weather conditions, Mr Modi also appealed to people to remember birds and animals amid the harsh weather. “In this extreme heat, let us also remember the birds and animals around us. A small bowl of water kept outside your home, on balconies, on terraces, or in shops or offices can become a lifeline for a thirsty bird. May compassion guide us in these difficult days,” he added.
Reacting to Mr Modi’s appeal, Mr Kharge asked why he doesn’t say something about his government’s “looting” of the people. “We can endure the heat, but the common people are sweating it out due to the fire of BJP-sponsored inflation. Why don’t you ever say something about your own government’s looting, Modi ji?” Mr Kharge posted on X.
During a briefing after the Cabinet meeting, Union minister Ashvini Vaishnaw said that the Prime Minister stressed the need for a “whole-of-nation” approach to deal with the extreme heat situation.
Mr Vaishnaw said that the Prime Minister directed all ministries to take appropriate action to protect people from the heatwave, particularly departments such as health and water resources.
“The Prime Minister said all ministries must take steps to protect people from the heatwave, especially ministries such as health and water resources, and consider what measures can be taken. He was clear that such major challenges should be addressed through a whole-of-nation approach, with the Centre, states and citizens working together,” Mr Vaishnaw said.
Asked about the measures the government plans to take, Mr Vaishnaw said that individual ministries and departments will determine their respective courses of action and the Centre has also reached out to state governments.
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