Extreme temperatures have become a pressing health concern in India. A recent study reveals that between 2001 and 2019, over 35,000 lives were lost due to exposure to extreme heat and cold. The findings highlight the urgent need for effective response plans to mitigate these risks.
Health Impact of Extreme Temperatures
The study indicates increase in deaths from both heatstroke and cold exposure. In 2015, alone, there were 1,907 heat-related deaths and 1,147 cold-related deaths. The data was sourced from the India Meteorological Department and the National Crime Records Bureau. Men of working age were disproportionately affected. Deaths from heat were three to five times higher among men compared to women, while cold exposure deaths were four to seven times higher.
Regional Variations in Deaths
State-wise analysis reveals that Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab had the highest heatstroke fatalities. Conversely, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Bihar recorded the most deaths due to extreme cold. The study recorded 19,693 deaths from heatstroke and 15,197 from cold exposure during the study period.
Need for Action Plans
The study’s authors emphasise the necessity for heat and cold action plans, particularly in vulnerable states. Some states are already developing heat action plans that focus on innovative solutions to provide relief. Expanding cold action plans is also essential to protect at-risk populations.
Global Context of Temperature Extremes
The phenomenon of rapid temperature fluctuations is not limited to India. A study published in Nature Communications indicates that 60% of the world’s regions have experienced increased temperature ‘flips’ over the past 60 years. These rapid changes can lead to severe consequences for human health, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Mitigation Strategies
To combat the health impacts of extreme temperatures, effective awareness campaigns are crucial. Public health initiatives must focus on educating communities about the risks associated with extreme weather. Additionally, enhancing support systems and infrastructure can help communities adapt to changing climate conditions.
Future Research Directions
Future research should focus on understanding the long-term health impacts of extreme temperatures in low- and middle-income countries. It is vital to identify the most vulnerable populations and develop targeted interventions to reduce mortality rates associated with temperature extremes.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the health impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations in India.
- Critically examine the role of state governments in formulating action plans for extreme weather conditions.
- What are the socio-economic effects of rapid temperature fluctuations? Discuss with examples.
- Explain the importance of public health education in mitigating the effects of climate extremes on society and economy.
Answer Hints:
1. Discuss the health impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations in India.
- Over 35,000 lives lost from extreme temperatures (2001-2019), with heat and cold exposure deaths.
- Men of working age are disproportionately affected, with heat-related deaths 3-5 times higher than women.
- Vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions, are at greater risk.
- Increased frequency of extreme weather events exacerbates health issues, including heatstroke and hypothermia.
- Need for targeted health interventions and awareness campaigns to protect at-risk communities.
2. Critically examine the role of state governments in formulating action plans for extreme weather conditions.
- State governments are responsible for developing heat and cold action plans to mitigate health impacts.
- Some states like Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh are already implementing innovative built environment initiatives.
- Coordination with public health agencies is essential for effective response to extreme weather events.
- States must prioritize vulnerable regions and allocate resources for infrastructure improvements.
- Regular assessments and updates of action plans are necessary to adapt to changing climate conditions.
3. What are the socio-economic effects of rapid temperature fluctuations? Discuss with examples.
- Rapid temperature changes can disrupt agriculture, leading to crop failures and food insecurity.
- Increased health care costs due to rising incidences of heat-related illnesses and cold exposure.
- Economic productivity declines as labor force is affected, particularly in outdoor sectors like construction and agriculture.
- Infrastructure damage from extreme weather events can lead to economic losses for communities.
- Examples include heatwaves causing power outages and cold snaps affecting transportation and logistics.
4. Explain the importance of public health education in mitigating the effects of climate extremes on society and economy.
- Public health education raises awareness about risks associated with extreme temperatures and necessary precautions.
- Community training can empower individuals to recognize symptoms of heatstroke and hypothermia.
- Effective education programs can promote adaptive behaviors, such as hydration and seeking shelter during extreme weather.
- Informed communities are better equipped to respond to emergencies, reducing healthcare burdens.
- Engagement in public health initiatives encourages resilience and collective action against climate-related health issues.
