Govt launches action plan to beat the heat in Capital
In a major step to protect the national capital from extreme heat conditions, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta launched the Delhi Heat Action Plan 2025 at the Delhi Secretariat here on Monday.
Designed in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the plan outlines a range of interventions — from cool roof technology to disaster-ready schools.
The event was attended by key dignitaries, including Cabinet Ministers Parvesh Verma, Dr Pankaj Singh, NDMA member and HOD Rajendra Singh, Delhi Chief Secretary Dharmendra and representatives from UNEP, NDMA and other Central and Delhi Government agencies.
The CM said the plan had been prepared using a scientific and citizen-centric approach, with inputs from the NDMA, UNEP, UNICEF, Resilience AI and UC Berkeley, among others. “This is not just a government document, but a people’s movement to protect every Delhiite from the dangers of heatwave,” said Rekha Gupta.
Key features of the plan include installation of 3,000 water coolers across the city, construction of shaded structures along footpaths and bus stops and pilot projects involving ‘cool roof’ and ‘green roof’ technologies for both government and private buildings. Cooling shades will offer pedestrians relief from the sun, while cold water dispensers will ensure public access to chilled drinking water, especially in slums, at bus stops and railway stations.
Special heatwave wards will be developed in hospitals, equipped with cooling facilities and medical resources. The government will also station CATs ambulances in strategic locations to respond to emergencies swiftly.
The plan places special emphasis on vulnerable groups, including children, elderly, outdoor workers, women and persons with chronic illnesses. Over 1.4 million students in more than 5,500 schools will be educated about heatwave safety and disaster management. The ‘water bell’ initiative in schools will remind children to stay hydrated, and cold water facilities will be set up in educational institutions as well.
To ensure rapid response, IMD’s colour-coded heat alerts (green, yellow, orange, red) will trigger action at the departmental and community level. Information will be disseminated through mobile alerts, media and online portals.
The CM also emphasised the importance of compassion during heatwave. “Our culture teaches us to care for all beings. This plan also includes steps to ensure water and shade for birds and stray animals,” she said.
Two major green initiatives were also launched —cool roof technology to reduce indoor temperatures and digital cold water dispensers for clean drinking water at public places. Volunteers from the ‘Aapda Mitra’ network were hailed as “frontline warriors” of the campaign, helping implement the action plan across neighbourhoods.
Calling on citizens to participate actively, Gupta said, “This is a joint responsibility. The government alone cannot fight the heat. It requires every Delhiite to step forward — whether by planting trees, conserving water or spreading awareness in their communities.”
The CM said Delhi was now equipped not just with a strategy but also with on-ground action to face the heat. “From schools to slums, from hospitals to homes, we are committed to protecting lives. This is not just a seasonal plan, it’s a promise for a safer, more resilient Delhi.”
Delhi