India faces increasing threats from extreme heat. A recent study marks gaps in the Heat Action Plans (HAPs) of major cities. These gaps could lead to more heat-related fatalities in the coming years. The study, conducted by the Sustainable Futures Collaborative, involved researchers from prestigious institutions. It puts stress on the urgent need for effective long-term strategies to combat rising temperatures.
About Heat Action Plans
Heat Action Plans are essential frameworks. They serve as early warning systems against extreme heat events. The plans outline immediate and long-term actions to enhance preparedness and reduce health impacts on vulnerable populations. The National Disaster Management Authority oversees HAPs in 23 state of Indias prone to heatwaves.
Recent Trends in Heat-Related Deaths
Data shows a concerning rise in heatstroke deaths. From 530 deaths in 2020, the number rose to 730 in 2022. However, there was a decline in 2024, with 269 suspected heatstroke deaths reported. Despite this decrease, organisations like HeatWatch indicate that the issue remains severe, with fatalities across various states.
Methodology of the Study
The study focused on cities with populations exceeding one million. Researchers identified cities likely to experience increases in heat index values. The cities examined included Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai, among others. They conducted 88 interviews with officials responsible for implementing HAPs in these areas.
Key Findings of the Study
The analysis revealed that while cities had short-term emergency measures, long-term strategies were lacking. Actions like providing drinking water and adjusting work schedules were common. However, essential long-term measures, such as improving household cooling and expanding fire management services, were largely absent. The study brought into light a focus on health systems rather than preventive strategies.
Institutional Constraints
The study identified institutional challenges. Coordination issues among various government departments hinder effective implementation of long-term strategies. Respondents pointed out that local coordination between municipal, district, and state departments is the primary obstacle to progress.
Need for Funding and Resources
The analysis emphasised a critical need for increased funding to support long-term actions. Without adequate financial resources, cities will struggle to implement effective measures against extreme heat. The lack of investment could exacerbate the risks faced by vulnerable populations.
Future Implications
The findings serve as a warning for the future. As climate change intensifies, cities must prioritise the development and implementation of comprehensive Heat Action Plans. Without effective long-term strategies, the health and safety of millions could be at risk.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the effectiveness of India’s Heat Action Plans in mitigating extreme heat impacts.
- What are the institutional challenges in implementing climate resilience strategies in urban areas? Discuss with examples.
- Estimate the potential health impacts of climate change on urban populations in India.
- Point out the differences between short-term emergency measures and long-term strategies in disaster management.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the effectiveness of India’s Heat Action Plans in mitigating extreme heat impacts.
- Heat Action Plans (HAPs) serve as early warning systems but lack comprehensive long-term strategies.
- Short-term measures like access to drinking water are implemented, but long-term actions are poorly executed or missing.
- Institutional constraints and lack of coordination hinder effective implementation of HAPs.
- Data shows rising heat-related deaths, indicating that current measures are insufficient.
- More funding and resources are necessary to enhance the effectiveness of HAPs and address extreme heat challenges.
2. What are the institutional challenges in implementing climate resilience strategies in urban areas? Discuss with examples.
- Coordination issues among various government departments limit the effectiveness of climate resilience strategies.
- Local governance structures often lack the necessary frameworks for inter-departmental collaboration.
- Examples include delays in implementing heat action plans due to bureaucratic hurdles in cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
- Funding constraints further exacerbate these challenges, limiting the scope of resilience measures.
- Training and capacity-building for officials are often inadequate, affecting the implementation of strategies.
3. Estimate the potential health impacts of climate change on urban populations in India.
- Increased heatwaves could lead to higher incidences of heatstroke and related fatalities, as seen in recent data.
- Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and outdoor workers, are at greater risk of health complications.
- Climate change may exacerbate respiratory diseases due to increased air pollution and heat.
- Waterborne diseases could rise due to extreme weather affecting sanitation and water supply systems.
- Mental health issues may increase as communities struggle with the impacts of climate change and displacement.
4. Point out the differences between short-term emergency measures and long-term strategies in disaster management.
- Short-term emergency measures focus on immediate responses, such as providing drinking water and adjusting work schedules during heatwaves.
- Long-term strategies aim to build resilience, such as improving infrastructure for cooling and enhancing urban green spaces.
- Emergency measures are reactive, while long-term strategies are proactive, addressing root causes of vulnerability.
- Short-term actions are often implemented quickly, whereas long-term strategies require planning, funding, and coordination.
- Examples of long-term strategies include developing insurance for lost work and retrofitting electricity grids to handle heat stress.
