‘Strict adherence to the Summer Contingency Plan is non-negotiable,’ Sharma asserted in the Saturday meeting. With heatwaves a recurring nightmare in the desert state, preemptive action is key.

Urgent works include deploying fresh handpumps and tubewells, overhauling faulty pumps, and fixing pipelines before the mercury spikes. Lapses in delivery will invite no mercy, the CM cautioned.

PHED and electricity officials must collaborate seamlessly. Helpline 181 complaints demand 24-hour resolutions. Supply gaps in low-frequency zones—every two to four days—must shrink significantly.

Presentations from 41 districts revealed region-specific tactics: canal-focused in Bikaner, desert adaptations in Jodhpur, tubewell reliance in Dungarpur, and hill-tribe provisions in Udaipur. This mosaic of plans promises comprehensive coverage.

In a forward-looking announcement, the ‘Viksit Gram–Urban Ward’ initiative kicks off March 19. It envisions holistic master plans for villages and wards, boosting essentials like schools, hospitals, water, power, roads, and fostering small-scale industries.

Sharma spotlighted green efforts, noting 190 million trees planted recently and aiming for 100 million plus this year. Pre-scouted lands will host climate-resilient, fruit-yielding species, aiding farmers and preserving precious water resources.

Key attendees included ministers Kanhaiya Lal and Sumit Godara, Chief Secretary V. Srinivas, and remote participants from divisions and districts. As Rajasthan braces, robust planning signals a hydrated summer ahead.