Uttar Pradesh Changes Ji Ram Ji Yojana Work Schedule Amid Severe Heatwave And 48°C Forecast

Amid a severe heatwave in Uttar Pradesh, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya has ordered major changes to protect workers on government job sites. Work timings under the 'Ji Ram Ji Yojana’ (earlier scheme – Manrega) are being reshaped so that labourers avoid the most dangerous afternoon hours.

Weather officials warn that many districts are already facing extreme conditions. In several cities, daytime temperatures have crossed 42 degrees Celsius. Health experts say such levels can quickly drain body water and salt, raising the risk of heat stroke, especially for people working outdoors for long periods.

Heatwave safety steps for workers under Ji Ram Ji Yojana in Uttar Pradesh

Under the revised plan announced on Sunday, work at Ji Ram Ji Yojana sites is suggested in two cooler slots. Labourers should work from 6 am to 11 am, then again from 3 pm to 6 pm. This pattern keeps workers away from the peak heat around midday, when the risk of illness rises sharply.

Keshav Prasad Maurya told senior officers that worker welfare must guide every decision. Maurya stressed that “In severe heat, the safety, health and dignity of workers are paramount.” Instructions have been issued to the Gram Vikas Department and other field officials to treat these safety measures as compulsory on all active sites.

Uttar Pradesh heatwave forecast and worker safety measures

Officials have been asked to arrange several basic facilities at every Ji Ram Ji Yojana workplace. Clean drinking water must be available throughout working hours. Adequate shaded areas are to be set up so labourers can rest between tasks. Primary medical care and other essential support should also be ready for any heat-related emergency.

Meteorologists state that a heatwave is likely to grip both western and eastern divisions of the state for the next six days. According to the forecast, temperatures may rise by 3 to 4 degrees Celsius till 19 May. From then until 22 May, readings could climb by another 1 to 2 degrees Celsius.

Agra is expected to be among the hottest locations, with maximum temperatures possibly touching 47 to 48 degrees Celsius. Night-time conditions will also be harsh. Minimum temperatures may rise by about 5 to 6 degrees, reaching around 30.0 degrees Celsius or even higher, meaning little relief after sunset.

Medical advice highlights that direct exposure to harsh sunlight at such temperatures can affect the brain and other organs. Heat stroke becomes a serious concern. People are being urged to avoid going out in the open during very hot hours. If travel is necessary, using an umbrella or other shade is strongly recommended.

The state government’s orders on adjusted work timings and mandatory facilities aim to reduce these known risks for Ji Ram Ji Yojana workers. With the heatwave expected to strengthen until at least 22 May, officials and labourers are likely to depend heavily on these guidelines to maintain safety and health at work sites.