Hospitals across Telangana have activated emergency protocols for heatstroke as rising temperatures push cases to alarming levels. The move comes amid a severe heatwave gripping the state, with maximums exceeding 43°C in several districts.
Health authorities report a sharp spike in heat-related illnesses. Over 150 patients were treated for heatstroke and dehydration in the last 24 hours alone, up 40% from last week. Major facilities like Osmania General Hospital, Gandhi Hospital, and private chains such as Apollo and Yashoda have set up dedicated cooling zones and rapid-response teams.
Doctors are on standby 24/7, equipped with ice packs, IV fluids, and electrolyte solutions. Triage units prioritize symptoms like dizziness, vomiting, rapid pulse, and confusion—hallmarks of heat exhaustion turning deadly.
“This is our busiest season for heat emergencies,” said Dr. Srinivas Rao, medical superintendent at Gandhi Hospital. “We’ve trained staff to spot early signs and cool patients fast. Public must stay hydrated and avoid peak sun hours.”
The protocols include public helplines (108 ambulance service) for quick pickups and awareness drives via SMS alerts. In Hyderabad, where temperatures hit 40.9°C, rooftop cooling beds and mist fans are operational.
Rural districts like Khammam and Warangal, baking under 43°C-plus heat, report the highest influx. Labourers, street vendors, and the elderly are most at risk.
A construction worker from Secunderabad shared his ordeal: “I collapsed on site yesterday—felt like my body was on fire. Hospital saved me with cold sheets and drips.”
The Telangana health department has allocated extra funds for ORS packets and fans in primary health centres. Schools and offices received advisories to shorten outdoor activities.
IMD forecasts no relief for 48 hours, with humidity worsening the ‘feels-like’ temperature. Health minister C. Laxman has urged district collectors to enforce rest hours for outdoor workers.
These swift measures highlight Telangana’s proactive stance against the summer heat crisis, potentially saving hundreds of lives as the mercury climbs.
-Rashmi Kumari
