Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
As Kerala grapples with an intense heatwave, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has called for a Covid-19-like voluntary “self-lockdown” between 11 am and 3 pm, urging people to avoid going out during peak afternoon hours.
The appeal comes after the India Meteorological Department issued a heatwave warning for districts including Palakkad, Kollam and Thrissur, where temperatures have crossed 40 degrees Celsius.
High humidity levels have further worsened conditions across the state, making the heat feel more severe even in areas not officially under alert.
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In a detailed advisory, Vijayan warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to serious health complications, including sunstroke and death, and stressed the need to avoid unnecessary travel or outdoor work.
“If you feel symptoms of heatstroke, seek medical help immediately. Help others in distress by moving them to shade and cooling them,” he said, adding that Kerala can overcome the crisis through coordinated public effort.
The government has also restricted public gatherings, banning outdoor events, sports activities, parades and fireworks during the afternoon window. Authorities have warned of increased fire risks amid the extreme conditions.
To mitigate the impact, the state has directed departments to adjust work timings, especially for outdoor labour.
Daytime employment guarantee work has been suspended, while arrangements are being made to ensure drinking water, shade and relief measures for workers, including traffic personnel.
Hospitals, primary health centres and ambulance services have been put on alert to handle cases of heat-related illnesses, with first-aid systems strengthened to respond to emergencies.
The Chief Minister also called on local bodies, self-help groups, traders and volunteers to set up water distribution points and shaded rest areas for the public.
Highlighting the need for collective responsibility, Vijayan urged people to also care for animals by ensuring access to water and shade, warning that extreme heat can increase distress among both pets and stray animals.
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
