Jaipur: With temperatures rising across Rajasthan, Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully, Tuesday, criticized the Bhajan Lal Sharma government, alleging it is unprepared to handle the looming heatwave. Speaking at the Constitution Club in Jaipur, Jully said early warning signs are already visible, with several districts crossing 45°C and hospitals reporting initial cases of heat exhaustion. “The summer has only just begun, but the system already looks stretched,” he said. He questioned the effectiveness of the state’s Heat Action Plan, which outlines measures such as early warnings, public awareness, drinking water supply and hospital readiness. “People don’t know what precautions to take, water arrangements are patchy, and there is no clear sense of coordination between departments,” he said, adding that vulnerable groups like daily wage workers, the elderly and children are most at risk. Targeting the government’s priorities, Jully said, “At a time when the state needs attention on the ground, the leadership appears busy with Delhi visits and hosting central leaders.” He added that governance cannot take a back seat during a public health challenge. The remarks come amid forecasts of intensifying heatwave conditions in the coming days. Jully called for urgent steps, including better hospital preparedness, reliable water supply and clearer public communication. “Heat waves are no longer rare events. They come every year now. The government needs to act before the situation worsens,” he said.
