Navigating the Rising Threat of Heat Waves in India

What Are Heat Waves and Why Are They a Concern in India?

A heat wave is defined as a prolonged period of excessively high temperatures. In India, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) declares a heat wave when temperatures rise above 40°C in the plains and 30°C in hilly areas, particularly if these conditions persist for over two consecutive days. The IMD has projected that the summer of 2024 will experience more heatwave days than usual, particularly in central and north-western India, reflecting a long-term trend of increasing heat due to climate change.

Which States Are Most Vulnerable to Heat Waves?

Heat waves are increasingly prevalent in traditionally hot states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Uttar Pradesh. However, regions that were previously less affected, such as Himachal Pradesh, Jammu, and parts of the Northeast, are now encountering heatwave-like conditions outside the regular summer months.

What Are the Major Impacts of Heat Waves?

• Health Hazards: Vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, outdoor workers, and low-income groups, are at high risk for heat strokes, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses.
• Economic Loss: Heat waves lead to decreased productivity, interruptions in outdoor work, and significant income loss, particularly in sectors like agriculture and construction.
• Environmental Stress: The impact on agriculture includes crop damage, reduced water availability, and increased pressure on power and healthcare systems.

What Are Heat Action Plans (HAPs)?

Heat Action Plans are strategic frameworks implemented by states or cities to mitigate heat-related risks. These plans typically encompass:

• Early warning systems and public alerts.
• Establishment of cooling spaces and shaded areas.
• Modification of school and office hours.
• Provision of clean drinking water.
• Awareness campaigns targeting high-risk groups.

Currently, over 22 states and numerous cities in India have instituted localized HAPs.

What Are the Challenges in Implementing Heat Action Plans?

Despite widespread adoption, several obstacles remain:

• Delayed Implementation: Many plans are either not activated promptly or lack strict adherence.
• Lack of Funding: While low-cost interventions exist, adequate financial backing and training are often lacking.
• Limited Coordination: Effective execution necessitates enhanced cooperation among departments such as health, water, and disaster management.
• Urban Focus: Numerous HAPs prioritize urban areas, neglecting vulnerable rural populations.
• Need for Regular Review: Many plans are not updated frequently in accordance with emerging scientific data.

What Is the Way Forward?

• Integrate HAPs into broader climate adaptation strategies and urban planning frameworks.
• Utilize satellite data and artificial intelligence for improved forecasting and identifying at-risk areas.
• Encourage community involvement in heat preparedness efforts.
• Expand infrastructure to include water access, cooling shelters, and green spaces.
• Establish real-time evaluation and accountability systems to enhance responsiveness.

How Can Heat Waves Be Addressed Under Disaster Management?

Heat waves are categorized as climate-induced natural disasters. Under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, both central and state governments must devise disaster risk reduction strategies. Incorporating HAPs into state disaster management frameworks can facilitate proactive risk mitigation, timely responses, and effective recovery after events. Additionally, building the capacity of local officials and disaster response teams is essential.

FAQs

• Has India experienced an increase in heatwave days? Yes, data indicates a significant rise in heatwave days over the past decade, with 2022 recording a total of 203 heatwave days.
• Are heatwaves limited only to summer months? No, recent studies reveal that heatwaves are also occurring during pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods, affecting a broader range of regions.
• How effective are current Heat Action Plans? While many HAPs are well-structured, their effectiveness has been limited due to poor implementation and coordination challenges.
• Which government body issues heatwave forecasts? The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is responsible for issuing official heatwave warnings and seasonal forecasts.
• What is the role of local governments in heatwave management? Local authorities are tasked with executing ground-level initiatives, including setting up water kiosks, adjusting work hours, and conducting awareness campaigns.

“A civil servant must prepare not only for calamities but also for the silent crises that strike the weakest first.”