Heat Action Plans Need Better Focus

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) in March predicted an increase in heatwave days and higher-than-normal temperatures from April to June, on the lines of last year's record-breaking temperatures that caused significant distress across North and Central India.

- Jitendra Choubey @New Delhi

There were more than 733 deaths and over 40,000 cases of heat stroke last year across 17 states, although the Central government said the numbers were less than half of the reported data. There is currently no standardized data collection model to evaluate the damage from heat waves.

The IMD also recommended precautions for vulnerable populations, such as children, elderly, and outdoor workers. Studies have revealed that outdoor workers in India are the most affected by heat, eating into their working hours by 20%. This decline impacts household economies and the country's GDP. Prolonged exposure to heat can lead to declining wages and rising healthcare costs, increasing the risk of falling into poverty.