Heatwave Preparedness in Indian Cities

Recent studies highlight the inadequacies in heatwave preparedness across major Indian cities. A report by the Sustainable Futures Collaborative (SFC) analysed nine cities, revealing a lack of long-term strategies to combat the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves. The cities involved are Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Faridabad, Gwalior, Kota, Ludhiana, Meerut, and Surat. These cities account for over 11% of India’s urban population and are particularly vulnerable to heat-related challenges.

Current Situation of Heatwave Preparedness

The SFC’s findings indicate that immediate responses to heatwaves dominate city strategies. Long-term planning is rare and often poorly targeted. This approach may lead to higher mortality rates due to heat exposure. The report suggests that many local officials do not perceive heat as issue.

Vulnerability of Socio-Economic Groups

Lower socio-economic classes are disproportionately affected by heatwaves. Workers in physically demanding jobs, such as construction and delivery, face extreme heat conditions. These individuals often reside in informal settlements that lack adequate cooling systems. This situation exacerbates their vulnerability.

Challenges Faced by Local Governments

City officials encounter numerous challenges in implementing effective heat action plans. Key issues include coordination failures among departments, competing priorities, and a general lack of awareness regarding the severity of heat-related problems. These challenges hinder the development of comprehensive heatwave strategies.

Recommendations for Improvement

The report recommends strengthening Heat Action Plans (HAPs) at the local government level. This includes establishing permanent, funded specialist positions in the most climate-vulnerable districts. Training for officials responsible for executing departmental actions is crucial for long-term risk mitigation.

Importance of Capacity Building

A sustained capacity-building effort is essential for enhancing heat resilience. This involves training city and district officials to implement effective long-term strategies. The report emphasises the urgency of these actions to prevent increases in mortality and economic damage in the coming years.

The Need for Immediate Action

Many long-term risk reduction measures require time to develop. However, immediate implementation is vital to ensure the effectiveness of these strategies. Without prompt action, the situation may worsen, leading to dire consequences for public health and safety.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2025

Category: Environment Current Affairs