LUCKNOW, May 1 -- Citing forecasts by the India Meteorological Department of a severe heatwave and below-normal rainfall this year, chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday directed the administration to remain on high alert.

"No negligence will be accepted at any level in drinking water supply, irrigation arrangements and relief management," he said, asking all departments to assess the situation in advance and be fully prepared.

Chairing a high-level review meeting with ministers and senior officials of the agriculture, irrigation, animal husbandry, social welfare and horticulture departments, the chief minister ordered special monitoring in 18 drought-prone districts. He also directed timely assessment of the situation between June 1...