Delhi heatwave threat grows: Govt identifies hotspots; Safdarjung, Ayanagar in red zone

Chief minister Rekha Gupta reviewed preparedness; the strategy focuses on targeted interventions in thermal hotspots and among vulnerable populations; departments are instructed to coordinate at multiple levels.

Power demand is projected to cross 9,000 MW this summer; distribution companies have been directed to ensure uninterrupted supply, especially to hospitals and water treatment plants.

The plan includes a cool roof policy with reflective coatings already applied at select locations, high-pressure misting systems planned at bus stops, and anti-smog guns deployed in densely built areas to bring down ambient temperatures.

Construction workers and outdoor labourers will receive protective gear such as caps and gamchas, with access to drinking water. Work at construction sites may be halted between noon and 3 pm on peak heatwave days; first-aid kits and ice packs will be available.

Contingency steps for schoolchildren include administering ORS before dispersal if conditions worsen.

Water containers are to be installed in public spaces such as parks, bus depots and school premises; water points will be created for stray animals.

Under the Heat Wave Action Plan 2026, departments are asked to step up on-ground implementation with a sharper, science-backed approach, prioritising children, outdoor workers and animals; teams are being deployed and departments coordinated at multiple levels.

Protection measures include increased ORS stock at health centres, deployment of quick response teams, and additional water tankers.

Emerging thermal hotspots include Wazirpur, Jahangirpuri, Khayala, Shastri Park, Vishwas Nagar, Harkesh Nagar, Hari Nagar and Delhi Gate. Densely populated fringe areas Sawda, Mubarakpur Dabas, Bhalswa, Nand Nagri, Gokulpuri and Bakkarwala are experiencing pronounced heat island effects.

Delhi government carried out a scientific heat assessment using satellite data to identify high-risk thermal hotspots. Ayanagar in south Delhi is identified as a sensitive area, with several zones highlighted as high-risk.

Najafgarh recorded 43.7°C in 2025, noted as a high-temperature instance in the city.

Safdarjung logged a peak temperature of 46.8°C in 2023, cited among historical highs in the city’s heat records.