Understanding Heatwaves and Their Impact on India

Disasters and accidents are often perceived as events that affect others. However, with climate change increasing the frequency of disasters, heatwaves have become a significant silent hazard in India. Despite their severity, public awareness remains low.

Role of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)

• Classification: Heatwaves are classified as a serious hazard by the NDMA, prompting efforts to enhance public awareness.
• Workshops: A national heatwave workshop is organized to foster stakeholder collaboration and awareness.

Global and National Temperature Trends

• Paris Summit Goal: Achieving the goal of keeping global temperature rise below 2°C is becoming increasingly difficult.
• Recent Temperature Trends: January 2025 was the 18th month in the last 19 months when global temperatures exceeded the 1.5°C threshold.

Impact of Heatwaves

• Public Health: 90% of Indians are vulnerable to heat-related health issues, straining healthcare systems.
• Economic Consequences: Heat stress could lead to 34 million job losses by 2030, with significant productivity declines.
• Water Resources: 54% of India's land faces high water stress, with increasing water demand and declining groundwater levels.
• Agriculture and Food Security: High temperatures contribute to crop failures and increased irrigation needs.
• Power Industry: Increased cooling demands challenge power availability and thermal power plant efficiency.

Heat Action Plans (HAPs) and Mitigation Strategies

• Development of HAPs: States, districts, and cities are encouraged to develop localized HAPs.
• Guidelines and Awareness Programs: NDMA issues guidelines and promotes awareness programs focused on heatwave risks.
• National Framework for Heatwave Mitigation: Emphasizes long-term preparedness, community participation, and multi-sectoral engagement.

Institutional and Policy Efforts

• Stakeholder Involvement: Multiple stakeholders, including government agencies and public health experts, are engaged in consultations.
• Resource Allocation: States are encouraged to recognize heat as a disaster for better resource allocation.
• Periodic Updates: HAPs are to be updated regularly based on data and assessments.

Challenges and Future Directions

• Implementation: Despite increased HAPs, implementation remains a challenge with a focus on scaling successful interventions.
• Practical Measures: Adoption of cool roofs, revised working hours, and cooling vests are practical protective measures.
• Water Resource Management: Promoting rooftop rainwater harvesting and water kiosks in vulnerable areas.
• Health System Preparedness: Ensuring healthcare facilities have basic heat management protocols.

The focus is on transforming communities into heat-resilient ecosystems capable of coping with rising temperatures.