Telangana Declares Heatwaves a State-Specific Disaster

The Telangana government officially recognised heatwaves, sunstrokes, and sunburns as a ‘State-Specific Disaster’. This declaration comes in response to the rising frequency and severity of heatwaves due to climate change. The government has increased financial relief for families of heatwave victims from ₹50,000 to ₹4 lakh. This decision aims to provide better support to those affected by extreme heat conditions.

About Heatwaves in Telangana

Heatwaves are prolonged periods of excessively hot weather. Telangana has experienced at least 15 heatwave days in 2024. Some districts reported over 30 days of extreme heat. The Indian Meteorological Department defines a heatwave as temperatures reaching at least 40°C with a deviation of 5 to 6°C from normal, or persistent temperatures above 45°C.

Impact of Urban Heat Island Effect

Urban areas, particularly Hyderabad, face intensified heat due to the Urban Heat Island effect. This phenomenon occurs when urban regions become warmer than their rural surroundings. It exacerbates health risks for construction workers and daily wage earners who are exposed to extreme temperatures.

Financial Relief and Support Mechanisms

The government order enhances financial support from the State Disaster Response Fund. Families of deceased heatwave victims can claim ₹4 lakh. Registered farmers under the Rythu Bima scheme can choose between two compensations – the Rythu Bima insurance or the SDRF relief.

Challenges in Measuring Heatwave Impact

Heatwaves have often been under-recognised as a hazard. Unlike floods or earthquakes, the effects of heatwaves are less visible. They primarily impact human health and can lead to under-reported mortality. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly, women, children, and daily wage workers, are particularly at risk.

Verification Process for Heatwave Deaths

To ensure accountability, the new norms establish a verification process for heatwave-related deaths. Medical officers, mandal revenue officers, and police officials must certify these deaths. Detailed district-level records will be maintained to track heatwave impacts.

Local Mitigation Efforts

Districts have begun localised efforts to mitigate heatwave effects. Initiatives include distributing Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) packets and setting up drinking water kiosks. However, the lack of formal recognition previously limited the effectiveness of these measures.

Future Implications and Actions

The declaration of heatwaves as a disaster signals a shift in policy. It marks the need for ongoing monitoring and support. The government aims to enhance public awareness and encourage preventive measures against extreme heat conditions.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the socio-economic impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations in India.
2. Discuss the significance of the Urban Heat Island effect in urban planning and public health.
3. What are the challenges in disaster management for non-visible hazards like heatwaves? Critically analyse.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the role of government policies in addressing climate-induced disasters in India.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the socio-economic impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations in India.

1. Climate change exacerbates poverty by affecting agriculture, which is the primary livelihood for many vulnerable populations.
2. Extreme weather events, such as heatwaves and floods, increase health risks, particularly for the elderly, women, and children.
3. Access to clean water and sanitation can be compromised, leading to further health issues.
4. Economic disparities widen as marginalized communities face greater challenges in adapting to climate impacts.
5. Migration may increase as people seek better living conditions, often leading to urban overcrowding and strain on resources.

2. Discuss the significance of the Urban Heat Island effect in urban planning and public health.

1. The Urban Heat Island effect raises temperatures in cities, leading to increased energy consumption for cooling.
2. It exacerbates health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations, increasing heat-related illnesses and mortality.
3. Urban planning must incorporate green spaces and reflective materials to mitigate heat absorption.
4. Improved public health initiatives are necessary to address heat exposure, particularly for outdoor workers.
5. About this effect is crucial for developing sustainable cities that prioritize climate resilience.

3. What are the challenges in disaster management for non-visible hazards like heatwaves? Critically analyse.

1. Heatwaves often go unrecognized as disasters, leading to insufficient funding and resources for mitigation.
2. Measurement and reporting challenges make it difficult to assess the true impact on health and mortality.
3. Public awareness is low, which can hinder community preparedness and response efforts.
4. Vulnerable populations may lack access to necessary resources, increasing their risk during heat events.
5. Coordination among various government agencies is essential but often lacking, complicating response efforts.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the role of government policies in addressing climate-induced disasters in India.

1. The Telangana government’s declaration of heatwaves as a disaster enhances financial relief and support for affected families.
2. Policies like the Rythu Bima scheme provide insurance to farmers, helping them recover from climate-induced losses.
3. Local mitigation efforts, such as water kiosks and ORS distribution, demonstrate proactive government responses.
4. National policies like the National Disaster Management Plan outline frameworks for addressing various climate-related hazards.
5. Government initiatives also focus on public awareness campaigns to educate communities about climate risks and adaptive measures.