Rajkot: Summer has gripped Gujarat in full force with soaring temperatures and the blazing sun driving an intense heatwave across the state. The India meteorological department (IMD) on Tuesday warned that the extreme conditions are likely to persist over the next seven days, with maximum temperatures hovering around the 41°C mark.Across cities, the effect of the heat is visible. Streets are deserted in the middle of the afternoon, roadside vendors seek shade and commuters cover up to shield themselves from the harsh sun. Rajkot recorded a searing 42°C, followed by Ahmedabad at 41.4°C, Amreli at 41.1°C and Vadodara at 40.4°C, reflecting the intensity of the heatwave.The forecast suggests that the heat will intensify in the coming days, with hot and dry conditions prevailing and no immediate relief in sight.In response, civic authorities have activated precautionary measures under the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation’s (AMC) heat action plan. Heat hotspots have been identified across the city based on area-wise temperature patterns, with real-time information shared through a dedicated website and QR codes.To mitigate the impact, arrangements for oral rehydration solution (ORS) and drinking water have been made at schools, anganwadis, construction sites, industrial units and labour congregation points in vulnerable areas.The health department has also intensified its response, with over 1,300 water distribution points set up across the city in collaboration with voluntary organisations, including more than 200 in high-density and high-traffic zones.Municipal schools have largely shifted to morning sessions to minimize exposure to peak afternoon heat and similar arrangements have been extended to around 2,074 anganwadis.All construction sites have been equipped with ORS and drinking water facilities, while provisions have also been made at 66 labour nakas and 65 worker congregation points to help people cope with the rising temperatures.
