No school, outside work in afternoon: Delhi prepares heat plan to deal with scorching summers from next year

In a significant move, Delhi plans to launch its inaugural heat action plan before the upcoming summer next year. The proactive strategy aims to counter the escalating heatwaves that have become a growing concern. The plan is set to include various directives to be enacted when a heatwave is declared in the city. As per a TOI report, these measures encompass ensuring schools don't operate during the peak hours of 12 pm to 4 pm, urging employers to adjust outdoor workers' schedules away from the scorching hours of 1 pm to 5 pm, extending day-long operation of night shelters for migratory populations, and halting non-essential water usage.

Previously highlighted in an April report by TOI, the city lacked a heat action plan, but preparations for its implementation have been ongoing. A senior government official told TOI, "This is the first time that a heat action plan has been prepared for Delhi. The plan has been prepared by Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) after taking inputs from the departments concerned." The finalized plan has now been submitted for consideration to the National Disaster Management Authority after being reviewed by the National Institute of Disaster Management.

Anticipated to launch next summer, the plan's effectiveness will rely on heatwave forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for up to seven days ahead, enabling the issuance of color-coded alerts to the public. Alerts will vary from "red" for a temperature departure of over 6 degrees Celsius, to "orange" for a 4 to 5-degree Celsius departure, and "yellow" for 0 to 3.9 degrees Celsius above normal. Key stakeholders, including DDMA and IMD, are tasked with disseminating heat-related forecasts to the public and relevant agencies.


This comprehensive heat action plan will be implemented annually in three phases: before, during, and after the heat season. Each phase serves distinct purposes such as setting up early warning systems, communicating alerts, and evaluating the plan's impact. Strategies will involve adjusting outdoor work hours, providing shaded spaces for vulnerable populations, and ensuring critical facilities like hospitals receive uninterrupted power during heatwaves.