A total of 16 people have died due to heatstroke in Telangana as severe heatwave conditions continue to grip the State, prompting the government to issue a statewide alert and announce ₹4 lakh ex gratia for the families of the deceased.

The announcement was made by Telangana Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy on Saturday (May 23, 2026), during an emergency review meeting convened in view of the rising temperatures across the State.

The deaths were reported from seven districts, with Jayashankar Bhupalpally accounting for four fatalities. Warangal Urban, Karimnagar, and Nizamabad reported three deaths each, while Jogulamba Gadwal, Rangareddy, and Suryapet recorded one death each.

The Minister said the compensation for the families of the deceased would be released immediately as per the directions of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. He directed District Collectors to remain on constant alert as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that severe heatwave conditions are likely to persist over the next three days.

As part of emergency measures, the State Government has ordered the setting up of drinking water, buttermilk, and Oral rehydration solution (ORS) distribution points at bus stands, markets, busy roads, labour congregation points, and other crowded public areas. Officials have also been instructed to ensure that emergency medical services remain on standby for the immediate treatment of heatstroke cases, said a release.

Mr. Reddy appealed to the public to avoid going outdoors between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. unless absolutely necessary. He also directed officials to take additional precautions to protect agricultural labourers, construction workers, and road workers exposed to prolonged outdoor heat.

The government further appealed to local authorities and residents to make arrangements for providing drinking water to birds and animals through water troughs and earthen pots in villages and urban areas.