*PUNJAB HEALTH MINISTER REAFFIRMS STATE-WIDE READINESS FOR EXTREME HEAT*

*— Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh Directs Civil Surgeons to Ensure 24/7 Preparedness and Medical Supplies for Heat-Related Illnesses*

CHANDIGARH, May 23:Amidst the increase in extreme heat conditions across the state, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh on Saturday said that the health department has already taken proactive steps to prepare facilities and the workforce to prevent, mitigate, and manage the impacts of extreme heat. The Minister highlighted that extreme heat exposure significantly raises the risk of heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, while exacerbating existing cardiovascular and respiratory conditions.

“To ensure the safety of our citizens, all Civil Surgeons have been directed to operationalize dedicated Heat Stroke Management Units across all District Hospitals, Sub-Division Hospitals, and Community Health Centres,” said Dr Balbir Singh. He emphasized that these wards are clearly marked and equipped with active cooling measures, including ice packs and cold IV fluids. Essential medical supplies, such as ORS and emergency drugs, are well-stocked at every public health facility.

The Minister further noted that ambulance preparedness has been strengthened to provide pre-hospital cooling during transit. The state is utilizing the IHIP portal for real-time monitoring of Heat-Related Illness (HRI) cases, and District Task Force meetings are being conducted to coordinate heat action plans with departments like Education, Labour, and Transport.

“While our medical teams are well-trained and ready, I urge the public, especially vulnerable groups like the elderly and children, to remain vigilant and follow the department's safety guidelines,” Dr. Balbir Singh added.

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*A total 7555 candidates will contest in Municipal General Elections 2026*

Chandigarh, 23 May 2026:The State Election Commission Punjab today informed that a total 7555 candidates will contest in Municipal General Elections 2026 to be held in Punjab on 26 May. In this regard, 1801 candidates from Aam Aadmi Party(AAP), 1550 candidates from Indian National Congress(IND), 1316 candidates from Bharatiya Janata Party(BJP), 1251 candidates from Shiromani Akali Dal(SAD), 96 candidates from Bahujan Samaj Party(BSP), 1528 candidates as Independent and 13 other candidates will contest Municipal General Elections 2026. A detailed list of contesting candidates is attached.