Published Apr 30, 2026 | 7:02 AM ⚊ Updated Apr 30, 2026 | 7:02 AM
Representational image.
Synopsis: Tamil Nadu’s Directorate of Public Health has ordered free Oral Rehydration Solution distribution at all government health facilities to combat rising summer heat. Special focus is on vulnerable workers, with hospitals directed to set up heatstroke wards and ensure preparedness as temperatures near 38°C across the state.
With summer temperatures rising across Tamil Nadu, the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine (DPH) has stepped up measures to prevent heat-related illnesses, directing all government health facilities to stock and distribute Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) free of cost to the public.
The directive comes as the state continues to experience intense heat, with several regions crossing 37°C. Meanwhile, Chennai has been recording temperatures close to 38°C, reflecting the broader heat trend across the state.
Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) will be distributed free of cost to the public across Tamil Nadu as part of efforts to prevent dehydration during the summer.
The directive applies to all government hospitals, medical colleges, primary health centres and urban health units. The move comes as temperatures continue to rise across the state, with Chennai experiencing higher-than-usual heat since February.
Health workers have been asked to focus on vulnerable groups such as agricultural labourers, construction workers and roadside vendors. Field staff have also been directed to proactively distribute ORS and create awareness about dehydration and the need to stay hydrated.
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The government has ordered dedicated heatstroke wards to be set up in medical colleges, district headquarters hospitals and other major public health facilities.
District health officers have been asked to ensure all preventive measures are in place and that hospitals are prepared to handle heat-related cases. The ministry stresses that early warning signs like fatigue, dizziness and excessive thirst should not be ignored.
Timely treatment can prevent serious complications, with the overall focus on prevention and staying prepared as temperatures continue to rise, it noted.
