Rising Heatwaves and Temperature Impact
Severe heatwaves in India are arriving earlier each year, with 2025 experiencing the first heatwave 20 days earlier than 2024.
Heatwaves, driven by climate change, affect multiple organs, causing heat stress, which can lead to illness and death.
The frequency and intensity of heatwaves have been increasing over the last two decades, contributing to economic loss and health issues.
Socio-Economic Impacts of Heatwaves
Heat stress impacts agriculture, reducing farm productivity and affecting livestock, harming farmers' livelihoods.
Workers in heat-exposed sectors like agriculture and construction face productivity loss, with up to 75% of India’s workforce at risk.
Heatwaves cause economic losses, affecting industries and personal incomes, with 6% of work hours in India lost to heat stress in 2023.
Heat Action Plans (HAPs) and Adaptation Efforts
India has introduced heat action plans in several states and cities, including early predictions, awareness campaigns, and health system preparedness.
The National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH), along with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), provides heat advisories and health-related information.
However, HAPs need better implementation, localized vulnerability assessments, and specific heat advisories based on geography and social contexts.
Long-term strategies such as improved urban infrastructure, cool roof policies, and staggered work times are critical for mitigating the effects of heatwaves.
A People-Centric Approach
Addressing heatwaves requires a focus on the most vulnerable groups, such as the poor, marginalized communities, and informal workers.
More initiatives like ‘summer shelters’ and financial support for informal sector workers can help reduce heatwave impacts.
A people-centric approach, recognizing heatwaves as an equity issue, is essential for effective adaptation and reducing economic burdens.
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