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Energy
As India steps into the summer of 2025, the country is bracing for a season marked by record-breaking temperatures and frequent heatwaves. The impending extreme weather conditions underscore the importance of robust heat health governance to mitigate the impacts of rising temperatures on public health, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. In this context, understanding the challenges posed by the intensifying heatwaves and the role of heat action plans in managing them becomes crucial.
The year 2024 was the warmest on record globally, with India being no exception. The country experienced its most intense heatwave year, with June witnessing an all-time high of 181 heatwave days in the northwestern region[2]. This pattern is not just confined to specific regions; heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense across the country. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast above-normal temperatures and heatwaves for the upcoming summer months, particularly in central and eastern states like Odisha, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh[2][3].
Heatwaves are no longer considered rare events but have become an integral part of India's climate landscape. The frequency and intensity of heatwaves have been on the rise over the past decades, with a notable increase in long-duration heatwaves. These prolonged periods of extreme heat pose significant threats to ecosystems, agriculture, and public health[3]. The urban heat island effect further exacerbates the situation in cities, where temperatures can be several degrees higher than in rural areas[1].
Heat Action Plans (HAPs) have emerged as a critical tool in managing the impacts of heatwaves, especially in urban areas. Originating in response to the devastating heatwaves in Europe and North America, India’s cities have adopted HAPs to address heat-related health crises. The earliest HAPs date back to 1999 in Odisha, following a severe heatwave that claimed thousands of lives[2].
Effective Heat Action Plans typically include several key components:
Early Warning Systems: These systems alert citizens about impending heatwaves, allowing them to take preventive measures. The IMD provides accurate forecasts that help in timely activations of HAPs[3].
Healthcare Preparedness: This involves ensuring that hospitals are equipped to handle increased demand due to heat-related illnesses, such as heat strokes and dehydration[2].
Public Awareness Campaigns: Raising awareness among the public about heatwave risks and preventive measures is vital. This includes tips on hydration and staying cool[3].
Social Support Mechanisms: Support for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and the poor, is essential. This might include providing cool shelters or assisting with water and healthcare needs[2].
Despite the intentions behind HAPs, their implementation faces several challenges:
Lack of Resources: Many cities lack the necessary infrastructure and resources to effectively implement HAPs. This includes inadequate funding for healthcare facilities and public awareness campaigns[3].
Inadequate Governance: The absence of robust governance structures hampers the effective enforcement of HAPs. Unlike air quality management, which has legal mandates, heatwave management often lacks legal backup[2].
Public Awareness: While awareness campaigns are crucial, they often fall short in reaching the most vulnerable populations or in changing behavior significantly[3].
The economic and social impacts of heatwaves are substantial:
Healthcare Costs: Heat-related illnesses result in significant healthcare costs and strain on medical facilities[2].
Labor Productivity: Extreme heat reduces labor productivity, affecting industries and economies[2].
Agricultural Impacts: Heatwaves can damage crops and disrupt agriculture, impacting food security[2].
Social Disruptions: Heatwaves lead to social disruptions, including school closures and water shortages[2].
The global community is increasingly recognizing the need for cooperation to address extreme heat. In July 2024, the UN Secretary-General called for urgent action in four critical areas: caring for vulnerable populations, protecting workers, boosting resilience using science, and limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C by scaling up renewable energy[2].
As India faces a sweltering summer in 2025, enhancing heat health governance becomes essential. This involves not only implementing effective Heat Action Plans but also fostering international cooperation to combat climate change. By strengthening governance, increasing public awareness, and ensuring resource availability, India can mitigate the impacts of heatwaves on its citizens and economy.
Improving heat health governance is not just a local issue; it is part of a broader strategy to address climate change globally. As the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events continue to rise, proactive measures to manage and mitigate these impacts will be crucial for sustainable development and public well-being.
