Telangana Govt. to Give Rs 4 Lakh to Heatwave Victims Families, notifies heatwave as State-specific disaster
The Telangana government has officially declared heatwave and sunstroke as state-specific disasters and announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs 4 lakh to the families of victims who die due to heat-related causes. This decision replaces the earlier compensation of Rs 50,000 under the Apathbandhu scheme, which was considered insufficient, especially for vulnerable groups such as outdoor workers, the elderly, and daily wage earners exposed to extreme summer heat.
The government order mandates that the District Collector ensure proper diagnosis of heat-related deaths based on exposure history and exclusion of other causes. This recognition aims to provide adequate financial relief under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) norms and acknowledges heatwaves as a “hidden hazard” with under-reported mortality and severe impacts on vulnerable populations.
Telangana experienced prolonged heatwaves in 2024, with most districts facing at least 15 days of heatwave conditions, intensifying the need for this notification and enhanced relief measures. The government has also prepared district-specific heatwave action plans, including provisions like ORS packets and drinking water kiosks to mitigate the impact.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts above-normal heatwave days for Telangana and other parts of India during the upcoming hot weather season, underscoring the importance of this government initiative.
Heatwave and sunstroke declared as state-specific disasters in Telangana.
Rs 4 lakh ex-gratia compensation to next of kin of deceased victims.
Compensation replaces earlier Rs 50,000 relief under Apathbandhu scheme.
Diagnosis of heat-related deaths to be ensured by district authorities.
Heatwaves recognized as a significant but under-reported hazard.
District-specific heatwave action plans and preventive measures in place.
IMD forecasts above-normal heatwave days for Telangana in 2025
