New Delhi, India — April 27, 2026
As extreme heatwave conditions tighten their grip over Delhi-NCR, authorities have stepped up preventive measures to protect schoolchildren and vulnerable populations. Under the Heat Wave Action Plan 2026, the Delhi government has directed schools to provide ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) to students before dispersal to reduce the risk of dehydration.
The move comes amid rising temperatures and increasing cases of heat-related illnesses across the region. Officials say the initiative aims to ensure that children remain hydrated, particularly during their commute home in peak heat hours.
🏫 ORS Distribution in Schools
The directive will cover nearly 2.1 million students, including around 1.5 million in Delhi government schools and 600,000 in municipal schools. The plan ensures that each child receives ORS before leaving school, helping prevent dehydration and heat exhaustion.
According to officials, the enhanced action plan follows instructions from Rekha Gupta, who emphasized a scientific and humanitarian approach to tackling extreme heat.
🌡️ Heat Hotspots Identified Across Delhi
Using satellite data, authorities have identified multiple thermal hotspots and urban heat islands where temperatures remain significantly higher. These include:
- Aya Nagar (South Delhi)
- Najafgarh (West Delhi)
- Safdarjung
- Wazirpur, Jahangirpuri, Shastri Park
- Vishwas Nagar, Harkesh Nagar, Hari Nagar
- Delhi Gate
- Outer areas like Bawana, Narela, Mundka, and Bakkarwala
Special arrangements in these zones include additional ORS supplies, water tankers, and quick response teams.
🏗️ Midday Work Halt & Cooling Measures
Authorities have also ordered a halt in construction work between 12 PM and 3 PM during extreme heat conditions to protect laborers.
To reduce heat exposure:
- Reflective coating is being applied under the Cool Roof Policy 2026
- High-pressure misting systems will be installed at bus stops
- Anti-smog guns will be used to lower surrounding temperatures
🏥 Rising Heatstroke Cases in Hospitals
Hospitals across Delhi are witnessing a surge in heat-related illnesses. Leading institutions such as All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Safdarjung Hospital, Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, and Lady Hardinge Medical College are reporting over 80 patients daily with symptoms like:
- Dehydration
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Fainting
Doctors warn that elderly individuals, children, and outdoor workers are at the highest risk.
At Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, a dedicated heatstroke unit has been activated, with additional beds being reserved across hospitals for emergency care.
⚠️ Public Health Advisory
Medical experts advise residents to:
- Avoid outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours
- Stay hydrated and drink fluids regularly
- Wear loose, light-colored clothing
- Cover the head when outdoors
🏫 Noida Schools Revise Timings
In neighboring Noida, authorities have revised school schedules to minimize heat exposure. As per orders from the district education department, classes will now run from:
🕢 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM
The change, confirmed by Basic Education Officer Rahul Panwar, applies to all schools and aims to ensure safe learning conditions during extreme weather.
📊 Key Takeaways
- Delhi schools to provide ORS to 2.1 million students before dispersal
- Heatwave Action Plan 2026 targets hotspots and vulnerable populations
- Construction work halted during peak heat hours
- Hospitals report rising heatstroke cases
- Noida schools shift to early morning schedule
