PRAYAGRAJ, April 23 -- The city has initiated a series of measures to combat rising temperatures. Under the first phase of the heat action plan, 25-metre-long green shade-curtains are being installed at major intersections to provide relief to pedestrians and two-wheeler riders, officials said. These reflective canopies are being positioned ahead of zebra crossings at busy junctions. The initiative is currently underway at six prominent crossings in the city, with some locations already equipped with the curtains, they added. Confirming the steps, Prayagraj municipal commissioner Sai Teja said that the civic body has decided to take concrete steps to mitigate the impact of heat. "Apart from installing shade curtains at key junctions, water sprinkling is being carried out by municipal vehicles in areas severely affected by high temperatures and pollution," he added. Meanwhile, the Jal Nigam has been tasked with ensuring the availability of drinking water across the city. Potable water points are being set up at intervals of every two kilometres, particularly in crowded areas and on major roads. In the initial phase, around 20 water tankers are being deployed to cater to high-demand zones and busy intersections, said officials. To strengthen emergency response, the municipal body is also planning to constitute Quick Response Teams (QRTs) linked to community health centres. Meanwhile, meteorologist Dilip Kumar Singh warned that urban temperature balance is being adversely affected by the increasing use of air conditioners in houses and vehicles, coupled with a declining number of trees. He cautioned that temperatures in Prayagraj and surrounding urban areas could cross 48 degrees Celsius by the end of April. The Indian meteorological department (IMD) has predicted heat wave conditions in Prayagraj which already recorded the season's highest maximum temperature of 44.6 degrees Celsius on April 19, 4.7 degrees above normal. Between April 23 and April 25, the city is set to bake in the afternoon sun, as the mercury is expected to hover around 45 - 46 degrees. In view of the escalating heat conditions, even district and nagar panchayats authorities have begun implementing similar preventive measures at their respective levels. Meanwhile, In view of rising temperatures and recent fire incidents, the principal of Motilal Nehru Medical College, prof VK Pandey, conducted a comprehensive inspection of the busy SRN Hospital premises on Tuesday. He interacted with patients, attendants, and staff to assess facilities and address concerns. During the visit, key areas including the trauma centre, emergency ward, new building, and Jan Aushadhi centre were reviewed. Special attention was given to seating arrangements, availability of drinking water, and other amenities in the OPD to ensure comfort during the extreme heat. Fire safety measures were also thoroughly checked, including fire extinguishers and the fire hydrant system. Water pressure and supply were tested, and officials were instructed to ensure swift response in case of emergencies. Prof Pandey said that ensuring patient comfort during the heatwave is the top priority, and all essential facilities will be maintained. He also emphasized keeping fire safety systems fully operational....