Protecting the most Vulnerable due to Increasing heatwaves in India

Source: The post Protecting the most Vulnerable due to Increasing heatwaves in India has been created, based on the article “In a heatwave, how do we protect our most vulnerable” published in “Indian express” on 11th April 2024. 

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3-environment–climate change and GS Paper 1- geography–Important Geophysical phenomena such as Heatwaves. 

News: The article discusses the increasing heatwaves in India and their impact, including rising temperatures, more heatwave days, and a growing number of heat–related deaths and illnesses. It highlights the challenges in accurately reporting and addressing these issues. 

For details information on heatwave read here  

What is the Current Status of Heatwaves?

Heatwaves in India: 

2023 marked India’s second warmest year in 122 years. (warmest year 2016). States like Gujarat, Maharashtra, North Karnataka, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, North Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh experienced severe heatwaves, with temperatures reaching 45.2°C in parts of Karnataka (Raichur). 

The frequency of heatwave days has increased dramatically, from 90 days in the 1990s to 190 days in 2022. 

Global Heatwave Status: 

Europe’s 2003 summer heatwave led to over 70,000 excess deaths across 16 countries, impacting around 400 million people. Countries around the Mediterranean Sea, like Italy and Spain, have been significantly affected by heatwaves. 

In 2022, considered Europe’s hottest season, there were approximately 61,672 heat-related deaths across 35 countries, affecting a population of about 543 million. 

What is the definition of “heat-related death”?

The US National Association of Medical Examiners defines it as deaths where high temperatures either caused or significantly contributed to the death.

How are heatwaves affecting public health?

Increased Mortality: There is a notable rise in deaths during heatwaves.  

Impact on Vulnerable Populations: Elderly people and those with pre-existing conditions are particularly at risk. For example- During a heatwave in Uttar Pradesh, most of the 150 deaths in a week were among the elderly. 

Rise in Hospital Admissions: Heatwaves lead to spikes in hospital admissions due to heat-related illnesses, as seen in districts like Ballia and Deoria in Uttar Pradesh. 

What initiatives has the Indian government taken to overcome the issue of Heatwaves? 

Heat Action Plans: The Indian government has updated Heat Action Plans across 23 states, aiming to strategically combat and manage heatwaves. 

Awareness Campaigns: About 100 districts have initiated campaigns to raise awareness about heatwave risks and precautions. 

Focus on Vulnerable Groups: These initiatives prioritize protecting high-risk groups like children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with chronic diseases. 

Public Health Preparedness: The Union Health Minister reviewed the preparedness for managing Heat-Related Illnesses (HRIs) on April 3, indicating a proactive approach to addressing the health impacts of heatwaves. 

Questions for practice: 

Discuss the impact of heatwaves on public health in India and the initiatives taken by the Indian government to address this issue.