Delhi LG Orders Heatwave Push As Cooling Zones Rolled Out Across City

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has reviewed the capital’s heatwave relief operations amid soaring temperatures and mounting stress on public health services. Authorities have now set up dedicated cooling zones across eight districts, with instructions to ramp up water, shade and medical support for vulnerable groups. The move is aimed at providing immediate respite while the city battles extreme heat conditions and rising heat-related illnesses.

The review focused on coordination between district administrations, health departments, municipal bodies and disaster management teams to ensure the heat action plan is implemented on the ground and not just on paper. Field feedback and rapid response to citizen complaints have been flagged as critical in the coming days.  

Relief Measures Across Eight Districts  

Cooling zones have been identified at public places such as bus terminals, hospitals, major markets and community centres in eight priority districts. These areas are being equipped with fans, coolers, drinking water kiosks and basic medical facilities to deal with cases of dehydration, heatstroke and exhaustion. Special attention is being given to daily wage workers, homeless people, street vendors and commuters who remain outdoors for long hours.  

Stronger Monitoring And On-Ground Response  

The LG has reportedly asked officials to intensify surprise inspections to verify that relief centres, water tankers and shelter homes are functional, adequately staffed and well-stocked. Instructions include better signage for cooling zones, awareness drives on heatwave safety and close monitoring of hospital admissions related to heat stress. Agencies have also been told to use real-time data and local alerts to scale up interventions quickly in the worst-affected pockets.  

Heatwave Relief Key Highlights  

• Cooling zones set up across eight districts to provide immediate relief  
• Focus on water, shade, fans and basic medical support at key public points  
• Vulnerable groups like daily wagers, homeless and outdoor workers prioritised  
• LG stresses active field inspections and faster response to citizen complaints  
• Awareness campaigns and data-driven monitoring to guide heatwave action  

Sources: ANI, Hindustan Times, The Tribune, The Statesman, UNI, Delhi LG office statements, and Delhi government heatwave advisories